accessory

ac-ces-so-ry · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A thing that can be added to something else to make it more useful, versatile, or attractive.

  2. 2.

    A small article or item of clothing carried or worn to complement an outfit.

  3. 3.

    (Law) A person who helps another commit a crime without being present at the crime scene.

Forms

plural: accessories

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    accessory before the fact — Someone who helps plan a crime but is not present during its commission.
  • •
    accessory after the fact — Someone who helps a criminal after the crime has been committed.
  • •
    fashion accessory — An item worn or carried to complement clothing.

Related words

Antonyms: essential, necessity
See also: access, accomplice, addition
Synonyms: addition, attachment, complement, supplement

Etymology

From Medieval Latin accessorius ("additional"), from Latin accessor ("helper, assistant"), from accedere ("to approach, to be added"), from ad- ("to") + cedere ("to go, yield").