Definition of ancillary

The word "ancillary" has its roots in Latin. The adjective "ancillaris" means "of or pertaining to a servant" or "secondary". This Latin term is derived from "ancilla", which means "maid" or "female servant". In the 15th century, the English language borrowed the Latin adjective and modified it to "ancillary", which originally referred to something that was subordinate or secondary to a main issue or activity. In modern English, "ancillary" typically refers to something that supports or accompanies a main activity, such as a service, function, or task that is subordinate but essential to the main purpose. For example, in business or medicine, ancillary services might include things like accounting, marketing, or medical testing. The word has evolved to convey a sense of assistantship or support, emphasizing the importance of secondary components that help achieve a larger goal.