ancillary

[an-suh-ler-ee, an-sil-uh-ree]

adjective

1. subordinate; secondary; subsidiary.

   Your medical coverage includes physiotherapy, eye testing, and other ancillary services.

2. auxiliary; assisting.

   The bookkeeper serves in an ancillary role, supporting the treasurer.

noun

plural

ancillaries 

1. something that serves in an ancillary capacity.

   Downloadable ancillaries to the basic textbook, such as videos and worksheets, are on our website.

ancillary

/ ænˈsɪlərɪ /

adjective

1. subsidiary

2. auxiliary; supplementary

   ancillary services

noun

1. a subsidiary or auxiliary thing or person

   the company has an ancillary abroad

Word History and Origins

Origin of ancillary¹

First recorded in 1660–70; from Latin ancillāris “having the status of a handmaid or female servant” + -ary adjective suffix; ancilla, -ary

Word History and Origins

Origin of ancillary¹

C17: from Latin ancillāris concerning maidservants, from ancilla, diminutive of ancūla female servant

Example Sentences

But the director, Michael Arden, who won his second directing Tony for “Maybe Happy Ending,” cannot keep the musical from stalling as various ancillary characters weave in and out.

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Core medical ancillary benefits include dental, vision and hearing coverage, which are not covered by original Medicare.

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Over the years of Coffin Creek’s various incarnations, a number of ancillary attractions complemented the mazes: a magic show, horror merchandise vendors and food stands.

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Executives “called out the need for consolidating core platforms and investing in the ancillary units,” Koning wrote.

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These expenses are in-network and before any other ancillary hospital co-insurance for procedures, lab work, drug costs and whatever else is charged.

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Related Words

• additional