residual
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈzɪdʒuəl/
KK: /rɪˈzɪdʒuəl/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is left over or remains after the main part has been removed or dealt with.
Example
After the meal, there was a residual amount of food left on the plate.
Conversation
Did you notice the residual smell of paint in the room after they finished?
Yeah, it's pretty strong even after a few days.
I guess it's because the chemicals leave a residual effect for a while.
Definitely! I hope it goes away soon.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
remaining
leftover
surplus
Antonyms
primary
initial
main
noun
Definition
The amount that remains after the main part has been taken away or used; it can refer to leftover payments or quantities.
Example
After the project was completed, the residual funds were allocated to other departments.
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how much residual income actors make from reruns?
Yeah, it's surprising how those payments add up over time.
I guess it's smart to have some residual earnings coming in after the initial work.
Root Explanation
Residual → It is formed from "residuum" (from Latin, meaning remainder or what is left) and the suffix "-al" (meaning pertaining to). The word "residual" refers to something that pertains to what is left over or remaining.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'residuum' which means what is left over — that's why 'residual' refers to something that remains.
Visually Confused Words
coresidual
nonresidual
presidial