The outer limits or edge of an area or object. The less important parts of a group or activity.
From Greek 'periphereia' meaning 'circumference', from 'peri-' (around) and 'pherein' (to carry). Entered English via Latin in the 14th century.
In social dynamics, being on the periphery isn't always negative - peripheral vision allows us to detect movement and threats that direct focus might miss. Many breakthrough innovations come from the periphery of established fields.
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