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

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

Some drop off boxes with barely worn designer clothing and accessories.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Slice, dice, blend, and even make dough in this handy unit, and when you’re all done, all the accessories pack away in the boat for easy, compact storage.

Read more on Salon

The brand sells portable beach umbrellas, swim bags and other beach accessories.

Read more on BBC

Inspired by 1930s driving caps but with a 1960s print, this silk driving cap from Bode is a perfect, and timeless, accessory as summer melds into fall.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The sunglasses are not only an accessory, but a barrier to keep the world, and perhaps himself, at a distance.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• adornment 
• appliance 
• component 
• decoration