anecdotal

adjective

an·​ec·​dot·​al ˌa-nik-ˈdō-tᵊl 

1

: based on or consisting of reports or observations of usually unscientific observers

anecdotal evidence

health benefits that may be more anecdotal than factual

2

a

: of, relating to, or consisting of anecdotes

an anecdotal biography

b

: given to or skilled in telling anecdotes : anecdotic sense 2

my anecdotal uncle

3

: of, relating to, or being the depiction of a scene suggesting a story

anecdotal details

anecdotally

ˌa-nik-ˈdō-tᵊl-ē 

adverb

Examples of anecdotal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These publications emphasize specific, practical information but may also include the anecdotal perspectives characteristic of shorter destination pieces. —Suzanne Dundas, Encyclopedia Britannica, 27 Apr. 2026

Yet much of the argument for structural reform relies on anecdotal examples, isolated cases and select audit findings without broader context. —Washington Post, 23 Apr. 2026

The study relied primarily on laboratory chemical analysis and anecdotal participant surveys, rather than tracking whether users actually developed health problems over time. —Chaewon Chung, Sacbee.com, 22 Apr. 2026

The anecdotal data support Miyakawa’s findings. —Cj Moore, New York Times, 15 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see anecdote

First Known Use

1715, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Phrases Containing anecdotal

• anecdotal evidence

Rhymes for anecdotal

• hypocotyl
• sacerdotal
• motile
• total
• subtotal