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Accessory: Definition, Examples, and Usage Guide (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：decorative add-on (accessory)
accessory
/əkˈsɛsəri/
n.
Something extra that you add to an outfit or an object to make it look better, more stylish, or complete.
decorative add-on
➕
/ˈdɛkərətɪv ˈædˌɒn/
n.
An accessory is a secondary item worn or carried to complement an outfit, enhancing its visual appeal or completing the look without being essential.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'accessorius' meaning 'additional', derived from 'accedere' (to approach, add).
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'access' + 'story' - you add an accessory to access a better style story for your outfit.
📖 Example
Her simple black dress looked elegant, but it was the statement necklace and matching earrings that accessory really made the outfit stand out.
Her simple black dress was elegant, but the statement necklace and matching earrings acted as accessories that truly made the outfit stand out.
🔗 Collocations
fashion accessory – a decorative item worn or carried to enhance style
matching accessories – items that harmonize with the outfit in color or design
wearable accessory – an accessory intended to be worn on the body, such as jewelry or a belt
🔄 Synonyms
adornment (n.) – something that adds beauty or decoration
ornament (n.) – an object used to decorate or embellish
embellishment (n.) – a decorative detail or addition intended to make something more attractive
🚫 Antonyms
necessity (n.) – something essential, not optional or decorative
🌱 Derivatives
accessorize (v.) – to add or wear accessories to complete an outfit
accessorized (adj.) – decorated or complemented with accessories
accessorization (n.) – the process or act of adding accessories
📖 Cultural Story
In Roman law, 'accessorius' referred to an additional person or thing. The fashion sense emerged in the 19th century as industrial production made decorative items widely available, shifting the focus from legal to style contexts.
Meaning 2：legal accomplice (accessory)
accessory
/əkˈsɛsəri/
n.
A person who helps someone else commit a crime, but is not present when the main crime happens.
legal accomplice
➕
/ˈliːɡəl əˈkʌmplɪs/
n.
A person who assists in the commission of a crime, either before or after the fact, without being present at the scene of the crime when it occurs.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The driver who waited outside the bank was charged as an accessory to the robbery because he knowingly provided the getaway car.
The driver who waited outside the bank was charged as an accessory to the robbery because he knowingly provided the escape car.
🔗 Collocations
accessory before the fact – someone who helps plan a crime but is not present during its execution
accessory after the fact – someone who helps a criminal after the crime, such as hiding them or destroying evidence
accessory to murder – a person who assists in a murder, either before or after the act
🔄 Synonyms
accomplice (n.) – a person who actively participates in a crime alongside the main perpetrator
abettor (n.) – a person who encourages or supports someone to commit a crime
conspirator (n.) – a person who joins with others to plan an unlawful act
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