Please note aside has been redefined since this post was written, please read the updated article.. HTML 5 offers a new element to mark additional information that can enhance an article but isn’t necessarily key to understanding it. An aside is a short comment or speech that a character delivers directly to the audience, or to himself, while other actors on the stage appear not to hear. ( əˈsaɪd) adv. Unlike a public announcement, it occurs within the context of the play. An aside is a dramatic device used in writing to help characters express their inner thoughts. Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way. Aside from definition is - in addition to : besides. The