Definition

Noun: 1. The consequences or results of a significant (and usually unpleasant) event: "Aftermath" refers to the situation or conditions that exist as a direct result of a major, often destructive, occurrence. It emphasizes the period following the event and its lingering effects. 2. A second crop of grass grown after the first has been harvested: This is a less common, agricultural meaning, referring to new grass growth.

Usage

"Aftermath" is used to describe the period and the resulting circumstances after a major event, typically one that is negative, chaotic, or catastrophic. It is often preceded by "the" and followed by "of."

Examples

• The country struggled to rebuild in the aftermath of the earthquake.
• The company faced severe financial problems in the aftermath of the scandal.
• The emotional aftermath of the accident was difficult for everyone involved.
• (Agricultural) The farmer let his sheep graze on the aftermath.

Advanced Usage

• "In the aftermath": This is a common prepositional phrase used to specify the time period or context following an event.
  • In the aftermath of the merger, several departments were restructured.

Variants and Related Words

• After-effect (noun): An effect that follows after a delay or some time after the initial cause. (Often used in medical or technical contexts).
  • The drug had no serious after-effects.

Synonyms

• Consequences: The results or effects of an action or condition.
• Repercussions: Unintended consequences, typically indirect and spreading.
• Wake: (As in "in the wake of") The situation following and resulting from an event.
• Fallout: The adverse side effects or results of a situation.

Antonyms

• Cause
• Origin
• Prelude
• Antecedent

Related Phrases

• "In the wake of": Following directly as a consequence of. This phrase is very similar in meaning and usage to "in the aftermath of."
  • New safety regulations were introduced in the wake of the fire.

Noun

1. the outcome of an event especially as relative to an individual
2. the consequences of an event (especially a catastrophic event)
   • the aftermath of war
   • in the wake of the accident no one knew how many had been injured