adjective / noun

marginal

Situated at the outer edge rather than the center.

She adds marginal notes beside the text as she reads.

Etymology

The root names an edge or border. The adjective therefore describes what lies at that edge rather than in the center.

More examples

  • The map's marginal labels identify the neighboring counties.
  • Marginal plants grow along the shallow edges of the pond.
  • The editor checks the marginal comments before revising the chapter.

Forms

marginal

margin noun — The edge or border of something.

Similar words

peripheral
Describes an outer region, not specifically a page's margin.
outer
Describes an outside position or layer, not necessarily a margin.