accessory

The word “accessory” means an additional item that complements or completes something, especially an outfit. In plain terms, either an extra item added to complete something, or (in law) someone who assists in a crime.

“Accessory” is pronounced uhk-SEHS-ree (/əkˈsɛs.(ə.)ɹi/ in IPA).

Here is “accessory” used in a sentence: “He was charged as an accessory to the robbery.”

Words with a similar meaning to “accessory” include addition, attachment and supplement.

Depending on how it is used, “accessory” can be a noun and an adjective.

The word “accessory” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin accessorius, related to accessus (see access) — something that "goes along with" the main thing.

“Accessory” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Accessory” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an additional item that complements or completes something, especially an outfit.

An accessory is someone who helps another person commit a crime without directly carrying out the criminal act itself, such as by providing a getaway car or hiding evidence. An accomplice, by contrast, typically takes a more active, direct role in the crime alongside the main offender.

No, accessory has multiple distinct meanings beyond fashion. It also describes a person who helps commit a crime without directly committing it, and as an adjective it describes anything supplementary or secondary rather than essential.

As an adjective, accessory describes something that is supplementary or secondary rather than central or essential to a larger whole. This usage appears in technical, legal, and general contexts to mark something as an add-on rather than a core component.