Definition

Describing something that is not the intended target of an action or effect, often used in contexts like medicine or weaponry.

Example

The treatment was designed to minimize damage to nontarget cells during the procedure.

Conversation

I read an article about the effects of drugs on nontarget cells.

Oh really? That sounds interesting! What did it say?

It mentioned how certain treatments can harm nontarget areas in the body.

That’s important to know; it makes you think about the risks involved.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nontarget is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "target" (from Old French *terget*, meaning a mark or goal). The word "nontarget" refers to something that is not a target or goal.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'target' as a goal — so nontarget means something that is not a goal.

Visually Confused Words