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

With Stranger Than; taking the helm on the ancillary events, a large portion of responsibility was lifted from González Vargas’ shoulders.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Most publicly traded hospital stocks and some ancillary stocks are trading near year-to-date highs.

Read more on Barron's

It would also have staff facilities and ancillary accommodation, including treatment, utility rooms, a sensory room and a dedicated adolescent area.

Read more on BBC

"I've got a real concern they still don't know who all their supply chain and the ancillary affected businesses are."

Read more on BBC

"This makes it easier to create ancillary units, even outside of the main and local centres."

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• additional