Ancillary

/ænˈsɪl.ə.ɹiː/ · adjective

Meaning

Subordinate; secondary; auxiliary..

Definitions by Sense

1. Subordinate; secondary; auxiliary.
2. Something that serves an ancillary function, such as an easel for a painter.
3. (archaic) An auxiliary.

Example Sentences

[…] how easily he took all things along with him,—the persons, the opinions, and the day, and nature became ancillary to a man.

[E]very organ of the body, whatever function it may perform, must also perform the other four functions in an ancillary manner.

The cafeteria is primarily used by students and staff (academic, administrative, and ancillary).

Auxiliaries and ancillaries are comprehensive, and include a Westinghouse motor-driven recriprocating compressor used for locomotive braking and general service air, two rotary exhauster sets for train brakes when hauling passenger or fitted freight trains, and an oil-fired train heating boiler.

Synonyms for ancillary

Antonyms for ancillary

Related Words

Word Forms

• more ancillary
• most ancillary
• ancillaries

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions