Ancillary

Adjective

Definition: Providing necessary support to the primary activities or operation of an organization, system, etc.

Synonyms: Auxiliary, Supplementary, Supporting

Antonyms: Primary, Main, Principal

Examples:

The administrative staff plays an ancillary role in the smooth functioning of the company.
The new software is an ancillary component to the existing infrastructure.

Mnemonics:

Think of the word "ancillary" as something additional and supportive.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English (in the sense 'subordinate'), from Latin 'ancillaris', from 'ancilla' meaning "female servant" or "handmaid".

Historical Usage:

The word has been used to describe secondary or supportive roles since its origin.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Ancillary to"

Explanation:

Referring to something that is supplementary or supportive to the main focus or purpose.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "ancillary" with "ancient" due to similar sounds.

Explanation:

While they sound similar, "ancillary" and "ancient" have completely different meanings. "Ancillary" refers to support or extra, while "ancient" relates to something that is old or from a long time ago.