accessory

[əkˈsɛsəri]

accessory Definition

  • 1a thing that is added to something else to make it more useful, versatile, or attractive
  • 2a person who helps someone commit a crime or do something wrong

Using accessory: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "accessory" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She bought a new handbag as an accessory for her outfit.

  • Example

    The car comes with several accessories, including a GPS system and heated seats.

  • Example

    He was charged as an accessory to the robbery.

accessory Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with accessory

  • an item used to contribute, in a secondary manner, to the wearer's outfit

    Example

    Sunglasses are a popular fashion accessory.

  • a person who assists someone after they have committed a crime

    Example

    He was charged as an accessory after the fact for helping his friend hide from the police.

  • a person who helps plan a crime but is not present when it is committed

    Example

    She was charged as an accessory before the fact for helping plan the bank robbery.

Origins of accessory

from Latin 'accessorius', meaning 'additional'

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Summary: accessory in Brief

An 'accessory' [əkˈsɛsəri] is a thing that is added to something else to make it more useful, versatile, or attractive. It can refer to items like handbags or car features, as in 'She bought a new handbag as an accessory for her outfit.' The term can also refer to a person who helps someone commit a crime or do something wrong, as in 'He was charged as an accessory to the robbery.' Other phrases include 'fashion accessory,' which refers to items used to contribute to an outfit, and 'accessory before/after the fact,' which refer to people involved in planning or assisting with a crime.

How do native speakers use this expression?