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gaiden

What does gaiden mean?

A supplementary story that branches off the main narrative, focusing on side characters or separate events.

"The villain's backstory got its own gaiden."

Origin

Japanese 外伝 (gaiden), 'side story/apocrypha'.

Frequently asked questions

What is a gaiden?
It's a spin-off or side story that branches off a main series, often focusing on side characters or separate events.
How is a gaiden different from a sequel?
A sequel continues the main story, while a gaiden sits alongside it as a supplementary side tale.
What does gaiden mean literally?
The Japanese 外伝 (gaiden) means 'side story' or 'apocrypha'.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.