Pronunciation: [ˈansɪləɹi] (IPA) 
The word "ancillary" is spelled with an "c" instead of an "s" because it comes from the Latin term "ancillaris" which means "of a servant or handmaid." In IPA phonetic transcription, "ancillary" is pronounced as /ˈænsəlri/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "c" is pronounced as /s/ and the "i" as /ɪ/. This word is commonly used to describe a secondary or supportive role in something or someone.
Ancillary is an adjective that describes something as subordinate or supportive in nature. It refers to a supplementary or secondary role that assists or complements a primary function or purpose. The term is commonly used to denote something that is associated with or directly supports a main activity, entity, or system.
In a business context, ancillary functions or services are those that are not the main focus or core operations of an organization, yet play a crucial role in supporting its primary objectives. For example, a hospital may have ancillary services like medical laboratories, radiology departments, or pharmacy units, which provide necessary diagnostic tests, imaging scans, or medication, respectively, in support of the main healthcare activities.
In everyday usage, ancillary can refer to additional or accompanying features or items that are considered secondary but supportive. This could include ancillary products or services that complement a main purchase, such as accessories for electronic devices or extended warranty plans for appliances.
Furthermore, the term can also be applied to people or individuals who provide indirect support or assistance in a particular task or role. For example, a personal assistant could be considered ancillary to an executive, as they provide support and aid in the smooth functioning of the executive's professional life.
Overall, ancillary refers to elements or entities that are supplementary or supportive, providing additional assistance or functionality to a primary function, objective, or entity.
Subservient; subordinate; as a handmaid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "ancillary" comes from the Latin word "ancillaris" which means "of a handmaid or servant" or "relating to serving or supporting". It is derived from "ancilla", meaning "female servant" or "a maid". The term "ancillary" was first recorded in English in the late 16th century and initially referred to something that provided support or assistance, particularly in a subordinate or secondary capacity. Over time, it expanded its meaning to encompass various fields and contexts, such as in business or medicine, where it refers to auxiliary or supplementary services or functions.
