Meaning & Definition of word "Auxiliary"

Auxiliary

/ɔːɡˈzɪl.ɪ.ɚ.i/

noun:

  • 1. A person or thing that provides assistance or support.
    • Example: The auxiliary helped the primary users by providing technical support.
  • 2. An auxiliary verb that is used with a main verb to form different tenses, moods, or voices.
    • Example: In the sentence 'She is going to the store,' 'is' is an auxiliary verb.

adjective:

  • 1. Providing supplementary or additional help and support.
    • Example: The auxiliary staff members were essential in assisting the teachers during the school event.
  • 2. Supplementary; acting as a backup.
    • Example: The company hired an auxiliary team to manage the increased workload during the holiday season.

Etymology

The term 'auxiliary' comes from the Latin 'auxiliaris', meaning 'helping, assisting'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

auxiliary verb:

A verb used to help another verb form a tense or mood.

auxiliary police:

A group of volunteers who assist the regular police force.

auxiliary engine:

An additional engine used to provide power in case the main engine fails.

Related Words

assist:

To help or aid someone.

support:

To bear the weight of something; to provide assistance.

supplement:

Something added to complete or enhance.

Slang Meanings of auxiliary

Meaning: Aux

Example Sentence: We need to call in the aux for backup during the event.

Meaning: Back up

Example Sentence: Don't worry, I got your aux covered if things go south.