ancillary
AN-sil-air-ee
/ænˈsɪl.ər.i/
Providing necessary support to the primary activities or operation of an organization, institution, or system.
Ancillary things are extra but helpful. They are not the main show, but the show couldn't go on without them.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'ancillaris', which comes from 'ancilla', meaning 'a female slave or maidservant'. It describes something that serves the main body, just as a servant serves a household.
Word relationships
- auxiliary: Auxiliary usually implies a backup or reserve; ancillary implies a permanent supporting role.
- primary: Primary refers to the main or most important part of a system.
Commonly confused with
- subordinate: Subordinate is about rank; ancillary is about the function of providing support.
Collocations
- ancillary services
- ancillary staff
- ancillary benefits
Example sentences
- "The hospital provides ancillary services such as radiology and physical therapy to support the main surgical units." Healthcare management.
- "The court dealt with several ancillary issues before the main trial could begin." Legal proceedings.
Memory hook
'Ancillary' sounds like 'auxiliary'. Both mean 'extra help'. Ancillary: An extra ally.
When not to use
Do not use this for something that is 'useless' or 'unimportant'; it must provide actual support.
Fun facts
- In the airline industry, 'ancillary revenue' refers to the money made from things like baggage fees and on-board snacks.
Related words
Explore more words
supplementary, supplement, byproduct, amenity, complementary, bolster
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