noun

supernumerary

Supernumerary (noun) means a person who works in a group, association, or public office without forming part of the regular staff (the numerary).

noun

A person who works in a group, association, or public office without forming part of the regular staff (the numerary).

An extra or walk-on, often non-speaking, in a film or play; a spear carrier.

Something which is beyond the prescribed or standard amount or number.

An animal which has not formed a pair bond and is therefore single.

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Etymology

From Late Latin supernumerarius (“extra soldier added to a legion; supernumerary”), from super (“above; beyond”) + numerus (“number; collection, quantity”) + -ārius (suffix forming adjectives from nouns or numerals). The word is analysable as super- + numeral + -ary.

Rhymes for supernumerary

vary Mary nary wary diary ovary weary apiary canary salary binary January

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Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of supernumerary?

"supernumerary" (noun) means a person who works in a group, association, or public office without forming part of the regular staff (the numerary).

What are the different meanings of supernumerary?

"supernumerary" has 3 main meanings: 1. A person who works in a group, association, or public office without forming part of the regular staff (the numerary); 2. An extra or walk-on, often non-speaking, in a film or play; a spear carrier; 3. Something which is beyond the prescribed or standard amount or number.