in Grammar, implies a property attached to a word, without entering into its essential definition. See GRAMMAR.

in Heraldry, an additional point or mark in a coat of arms, which may be either omitted or retained. Accident without altering the essence of the armour; such as abatement, difference, and tincture.

among Logicians, is used in a threefold sense. 1. Whatever does not essentially belong to a thing; as the clothes a man wears, or the money in his pocket. 2. Such properties in any subject as are not essential to it; thus, whiteness in paper is an accidental quality. 3. In opposition to substance, all qualities whatever are called accidents; as sweetness, softness, &c.