marginal
UK: ˈmɑːdʒɪnəl | US: ˈmɑːrdʒɪnəl
adj. relating to or situated at the edge or margin of something
adj. of minor importance or relevance
adj. (economics) producing barely enough to justify the cost
The word "marginal" derives from the Latin "marginalis," which comes from "margo" (meaning "edge" or "border"). The suffix "-al" was added to form an adjective, indicating a relationship to the margin. Over time, "marginal" evolved to describe not just physical edges but also metaphorical boundaries, such as minimal importance or economic viability. The logic reflects how things at the margins are often peripheral or barely significant.
The notes were written in the marginal space of the textbook.
The issue had only marginal relevance to the main discussion.
The farm's output was marginal, barely covering its expenses.
She made a marginal improvement in her test scores.
The artist added marginal details to the painting's border.