Word of the Day: Ancillary
What's the story
"Ancillary" (adjective) describes something that provides support or is secondary to the main thing. It's used when talking about services, roles, or items that help or complement the primary function. Let's learn more about this word and how to use it.
Origin
Origin of the word
The word "ancillary" comes from the Latin word ancilla, meaning "female servant" or "helper." It entered English to describe things that serve a supporting role. Today, it's used for anything that provides assistance, support, or is supplementary to the main function.
Synonyms
Synonyms for 'ancillary'
Some common synonyms for "ancillary" include supporting, supplementary, auxiliary, additional, secondary, and subordinate. These words all describe things that help, assist, or enhance the main activity or object. They're often used in business, services, or projects where support is important.
Usage
Sentence usage
Here's how "ancillary" can appear in sentences: "The hospital has several 'ancillary' services, like labs and imaging." "Training materials are 'ancillary' to the main course content." "He works in an 'ancillary' department that supports the main operations."
Writing
Why use the word
The word "ancillary" is useful when you want to show something that supports or complements the main thing. It makes your writing precise and professional, highlighting the importance of secondary or supportive elements. It's perfect for describing services, tools, or roles that aid the primary function.