accessory

[ak-ses-uh-ree]

noun

plural

accessories 

1. a subordinate or supplementary part, object, or the like, used mainly for convenience, attractiveness, safety, etc., as a spotlight on an automobile or a lens cover on a camera.

2. an article or set of articles of dress, as gloves, earrings, or a scarf, that adds completeness, convenience, attractiveness, etc., to one's basic outfit.

3. Law.

   1. Also called accessory before the fact. a person who, though not present during the commission of a felony, is guilty of having aided and abetted another, who committed the felony.

   2. Also called accessory after the fact. a person who knowingly conceals or assists another who has committed a felony.

   Synonyms: accomplice

4. Anatomy.,  accessory nerve.

adjective

1. contributing to a general effect; supplementary; subsidiary.

2. Law.,  giving aid as an accessory.

accessory

/ ˌæksɛˈsɔːrɪəl, əkˈsɛsərɪ /

noun

1. a supplementary part or object, as of a car, appliance, etc

2. (often plural) a small accompanying item of dress, esp of women's dress

3. a person who incites someone to commit a crime or assists the perpetrator of a crime, either before or during its commission

adjective

1. supplementary; additional; subordinate

2. assisting in or having knowledge of an act, esp a crime

Other Word Forms

• accessorial adjective
• accessorily adverb
• accessoriness noun
• interaccessory adjective
• nonaccessory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of accessory¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English accessorie (from Middle French ), from Medieval Latin accessōrius. See accede, -tory ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of accessory¹

C17: from Late Latin accessōrius: see _access

Synonym Study

See addition.

Example Sentences

He also purchased a variety of furnishings, plants and accessories on Etsy and Offer Up as well as artworks by local artists, photographers and friends.

From Los Angeles Times

Urara’s reputation — bolstered by her signature pink racing accessories and fan merchandise — breached the perimeters of the Kochi racetrack and made her a global phenomenon.

From Los Angeles Times

The owner of the apartment building on the corner of 5th Street and Kingsley Drive plans to remove several parking spaces used by long-time tenants and convert them into five accessory dwelling units.

From Los Angeles Times

The relaxed tone in his voice matches his comfy clothing, punctuated by cool accessories — a chic pair of third-eye sunglasses and sandals.

From Los Angeles Times

He went on to introduce glasses, sportswear, cosmetics and accessories.

From BBC

Related Words

• adornment 
• appliance 
• component 
• decoration