indirect Meaning, Definition & Usage

adjective satellite having intervening factors or persons or influences
- reflection from the ceiling provided a soft indirect light
- indirect evidence
- an indirect cause
adjective 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
adjective descended from a common ancestor but through different lines
collateral.
- cousins are collateral relatives
- an indirect descendant of the Stuarts
adjective 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
adjective satellite not as a direct effect or consequence
- indirect benefits
- an indirect advantage

Pref. in- not + direct: cf. F. indirect.

Not direct; not straight or rectilinear; deviating from a direct line or course; circuitous; as, an indirect road.
Not tending to an aim, purpose, or result by the plainest course, or by obvious means, but obliquely or consequentially; by remote means; as, an indirect accusation, attack, answer, or proposal.
By what bypaths and indirect, crooked ways I met this crown. Shak.
Not straightforward or upright; unfair; dishonest; tending to mislead or deceive.
Indirect dealing will be discovered one time or other. Tillotson.
Not resulting directly from an act or cause, but more or less remotely connected with or growing out of it; as, indirect results, damages, or claims.
(Logic & Math.) Not reaching the end aimed at by the most plain and direct method; as, an indirect proof, demonstration, etc.