indirect meaning and definition

INDIRECT adjective

Definition of indirect (adjective)

1. having intervening factors or persons or influences
   • "reflection from the ceiling provided a soft indirect light"; "indirect evidence"; "an indirect cause"
2. not direct in spatial dimension; not leading by a straight line or course to a destination
   • "sometimes taking an indirect path saves time"; "you must take an indirect course in sailing"
   • antonym: direct
3. descended from a common ancestor but through different lines
   • "cousins are collateral relatives"; "an indirect descendant of the Stuarts"
   • synonyms: collateral
   • antonym: direct
4. extended senses; not direct in manner or language or behavior or action
   • "making indirect but legitimate inquiries"; "an indirect insult"; "doubtless they had some indirect purpose in mind"; "though his methods are indirect they are not dishonest"; "known as a shady indirect fellow"
   • antonym: direct
5. not as a direct effect or consequence
   • "indirect benefits"; "an indirect advantage"