Secondary

/ˈsɛk əˌnɛr i/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Of second rank, importance, or value; subordinate or derived.

In the secondary education system, students typically attend high school.

Not primary; occurring later in time or as a result.

The secondary effects of the medication can include dizziness and nausea.

Involving or relating to the second stage of a process.

The secondary market for bonds allows investors to buy and sell securities.

Relating to a type of education that follows primary education.

She decided to pursue a career in secondary education to teach high school science.

Of a species or family that is derived from another and is not as dominant.

The secondary succession in the forest followed the disturbance caused by the wildfire.

From Middle English, from Latin 'secundarius' (of the second), from 'secundus' (second).

secondary education

Education following primary schooling, usually includes high school.

secondary effects

Indirect or less important results that occur after an initiation.

secondary market

A financial market where previously issued securities are traded.

primary

Of chief importance; principal.

tertiary

Third in order or importance.

auxiliary

Providing supplementary support or assistance.

Second fiddle

In the project, she felt she was playing second fiddle to her colleague.

The B team

He's on the school's B team, which is considered secondary to the A team.