noun

parenthesis

puh-REN-thuh-sis/pəˈrenθəsɪs/

An aside inserted into a larger statement or sequence.

The parenthesis 'my sister' adds an aside to the sentence about Mia's call.

A close-up of a small paper slip bearing the short sentence “Mia (my sister) called.” The two curved parentheses are highlighted in restrained blue, visibly enclosing the optional information.

Etymology

parGreekbeside

+enGreekin

+thesisGreekput, place

The pieces mean a 'putting in beside': explanatory words inserted alongside a sentence's main structure. The name later extended from those inserted words to the curved marks enclosing them.

In context

Hoffman Academy12:02

sometimes you get a choice with fingerings. You'll see that 2 in parenthesis, that means if that doesn't feel comfortable for you, you can try finger 2 and see if you like that better.

"Andante" | Piano Lesson

More examples

The essay includes a parenthesis explaining how the experiment began.
In parenthesis, he thanks the neighbors who helped him.
These humorous parentheses interrupt an otherwise serious account.

Forms

parenthesis · parentheses

parenthetical adjective — Expressed as an aside or interruption.

Similar words

aside: A more everyday term for a brief side comment.
digression: Suggests a longer departure from the main subject or narrative.