incidental
UK: ˌɪnsɪˈdɛnt(ə)l | US: ˌɪnsɪˈdɛn(t)əl
adj. occurring as a minor consequence or by chance
adj. not essential or central to a situation
n. something that happens incidentally
The word "incidental" derives from the Latin incidere ("to fall into, happen"), combining in- ("into") and cadere ("to fall"). The root "incident" (later simplified to "incident") originally referred to an event or occurrence. The suffix -al was added in Late Middle English to form the adjective, emphasizing something that happens by chance or as a secondary effect. Over time, "incidental" evolved to describe non-essential or peripheral aspects of a situation, reflecting its logical progression from "occurring" to "secondary."
The travel expenses were incidental to the business trip.
She mentioned the issue only as an incidental remark.
Incidental music played softly in the background.
The report included incidental details about the project.
His injuries were incidental to the main accident.