INCIDENTAL


Meaning of INCIDENTAL in English

/ ˌɪnsɪˈdentl; NAmE / adjective , noun

■ adjective

1.

incidental (to sth) happening in connection with sth else, but not as important as it, or not intended :

The discovery was incidental to their main research.

incidental music (= music used with a play or a film / movie to give atmosphere)

You may be able to get help with incidental expenses (= small costs that you get in connection with sth) .

2.

incidental to sth ( technical ) happening as a natural result of sth :

These risks are incidental to the work of a firefighter.

■ noun

[ usually pl. ] something that happens in connection with sth else, but is less important :

You'll need money for incidentals such as tips and taxis.

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WORD ORIGIN

early 17th cent.: originally from medieval Latin incidentalis , from Latin incident- falling upon, happening to, from the verb incidere , from in- upon + cadere to fall.

Oxford Advanced Learner's English Dictionary.      Оксфордский английский словарь для изучающик язык на продвинутом уровне.