Definition of "accessory" in English

adjective

1. Having a secondary, supplementary or subordinate function by accompanying as a subordinate; aiding in a secondary way; being additional; contributing or being contributory.

   • accessory garments
   • Surprise parties succeed with the help of accessory neighbors or colleagues.

2. (law) Assisting a crime without actually participating in committing the crime itself; being connected as an incident or subordinate to a principal.

   • Her actions were clearly accessory because they helped him commit and probably also conceal the crime.

3. Present in a minor amount, and not essential.

   • accessory mineral

noun

1. Something that belongs to part of another main thing; something additional and subordinate, an attachment.

   • the accessories of a mobile phone

2. (fashion) An article that completes one's basic outfit, such as a scarf or gloves.

3. (law) A person who is not present at a crime, but contributes to it as an assistant or instigator.

   • She was an accessory to the murder because she helped him commit and probably also conceal the crime.

4. (art) Something in a work of art without being indispensably necessary, for example solely ornamental parts.