epi·phenomenon \“+\noun (pluralepiphenomenaalsoepiphenomenons) Etymology:epi- + phenomenon 1.: a secondary phenomenon accompanying another phenomenon and thought of as caused by it < fate determines what will happen to us, while ideas, convictions, and intentions are no more than phosphorescent epiphenomena — J.W.Krutch > 2.: an accidental or accessory event or process occurring in the course of a disease but not necessarily related to that disease