side effects

NOUN

adverse or unwanted secondary effect

Synonyms

STRONGEST

aftereffect reaction

WEAK

aftermath aftertaste byproduct carryover concomitant corollary leftover offshoot secondary response side issue sidebar spinoff

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It claimed to “factor in things like energy levels, treatment side effects, and time constraints—only when relevant.”

From Slate • May 6, 2026

However, attempts to increase these compounds often create unwanted side effects.

From Science Daily • May 5, 2026

Many also promote the use of isotretinoin—commonly known as Accutane, an anti-acne medication—which can result in severe side effects.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

There's endless appointments, all sorts of side effects from having your body "nuked like Chernobyl", fatigue from having to constantly advocate for yourself, and massive financial pressure - despite subsidies from Australia's universal healthcare system.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

Either the side effects of the nahlrout were fading, or my anger was slowly burning away the haze of exhaustion.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss