extrinsic
UK[ɛkˈstrɪnsɪk]US[ɛkˈstrɪnsɪk]
adj
not part of the essential nature of someone or something; coming or operating from outside.
adj
(of a muscle, such as an eye muscle) having its origin some distance from the part which it moves.
Etymology
the word 'extrinsic' entered english in the late 16th century, directly from the late latin word 'extrinsecus', meaning 'outward' or 'from without'. this latin term is itself a compound, formed from 'exter' ('outer') and the suffix '-secus' ('following' or 'beside'), which is related to 'sequi' ('to follow'). the core logic of the word, from its latin origins, is that of something situated on the outside and following along beside the essential core. over time, this spatial and relational concept evolved into the modern abstract meaning, describing qualities, factors, or influences that originate externally and are not inherent to the subject in question.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword from latin. it is not productively formed from morphemes present in modern english spelling and therefore is not segmented.
Examples
her personal feelings were not a factor; the decision was based purely on extrinsic considerations.
the extrinsic value of the coin comes from its historical significance, not its metal content.
the surgeon carefully identified the extrinsic muscles controlling the eye's movement.