aftermath

UK: /ˈɑːftəmæθ/ | US: /ˈæftərmæθ/

Definition

  1. n. the consequences or effects of a significant event (typically negative)

  2. n. (archaic) a second crop of grass grown after the first harvest

Structure
after <later in time>math <mowing, from Old English *mǣþ*>
Etymology

The word "aftermath" originated in Old English as a farming term, combining "after" (later) and "math" (from mǣþ, meaning "mowing" or "harvest"). It originally referred to the second growth of grass after the first cutting. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe the lingering effects or consequences of an event, often implying an undesirable outcome—much like how the "aftermath" of a harvest leaves the field bare before regrowth.

Examples

  1. The town struggled to rebuild in the aftermath of the earthquake.

  2. The political scandal had a lasting aftermath on the election.

  3. Farmers once relied on the aftermath for grazing their livestock.

  4. The report examined the economic aftermath of the pandemic.

  5. Emotional aftermath often follows traumatic experiences.