aftereffect

noun

af·​ter·​ef·​fect ˈaf-tər-ə-ˌfekt 

: an effect that follows its cause after an interval

Synonyms

• aftermath
• backwash
• child
• conclusion
• consequence
• corollary
• development
• effect
• fate
• fruit
• issue
• outcome
• outgrowth
• precipitate
• product
• result
• resultant
• sequel
• sequence
• upshot

Examples of aftereffect in a Sentence

in the U.S. slavery was abolished in 1865, but its aftereffects remained keenly felt long afterwards

Recent Examples on the Web

The aftereffects may be most distressing to those directly impacted by the Jan. 6 assault. —Eric Cortellessa, TIME, 22 Jan. 2025

Although snow has subsided in parts of Texas and Louisiana, the aftereffects are likely to linger. —Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025

Few players are willing to show up to the rink feeling the aftereffects of a late night out. —Joshua Kloke, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025

Many Texans remember the aftereffects of Winter Storm Uri, when electricity rates hit the market cap of $9 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). —Caitlin Ritchie, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

after- + effect entry 1

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

aftereffect

noun

af·​ter·​ef·​fect -ə-ˌfekt 

: an effect that arises after the first or immediate effect has decreased or disappeared

a medicine with no noticeable aftereffects

Medical Definition

aftereffect

noun

af·​ter·​ef·​fect ˈaf-tə-ri-ˌfekt 

1

: an effect that follows its cause after an interval

the aftereffects of surgery

2

: a secondary result especially in the action of a drug coming on after the subsidence of the first effect