Pronunciation: [æd-ven-'ti-shês]
Definition: (1) An extraneous part of a system found in an unusual place, as adventitious roots growing from the trunk of a tree; (2) added extraneously, not inherent or natural, out of place.
Usage: Today's word resembles "adventurous" and you might be tempted to confuse the two. Although both derive from the same source (see Etymology), the two words are distinct. The adverb for today's word is "adventitiously" and the noun is "adventitiousness."
Suggested Usage: Today's word should be useful for the gardener who often roots stock for transplanting, "The twig that I started rooting last week already has developed adventitious roots." Still, there is more than enough room for metaphorical maneuvering: "Melanie arrived in a matching skirt and sweater outfit, leather pumps, and an adventitious yellow purse that raised more than one eyebrow."
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