Secondary

Definition

Secondary is an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it means coming after the primary or first in importance, order, or time. As a noun, it refers to a secondary entity or a subordinate part.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛk.ənˌdɛr.i/, /ˈsɛk.ənˌder.i/
• Respelling: SEK-uhn-dair-ee, SEK-uhn-deh-ree

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛk.ən.dər.i/
• Respelling: SEK-uhn-duh-ree

Etymology

The word "secondary" originates from the Latin "secundarius," meaning "following or second," derived from "secundus," which means "following" or "favorable." It was adopted into Middle English during the 15th century.

Derivatives

• Secondarily (adverb)
• Secondariness (noun)
• Secondary school (noun)
• Secondary education (noun)
• Secondary source (noun)

Synonyms

• Subordinate
• Auxiliary
• Supplementary

Antonyms

• Primary
• Main
• Principal

Usage

The term "secondary" is used in various fields like education, science, and general conversation. Examples include "She attends a secondary school" (adjective) and "The assistants play a secondary role in the operation" (noun).

Related Terms

• Primary: The first in importance or order.
• Tertiary: Third in order or importance.
• Subordinate: Of lesser importance or rank.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Coming after the first in order or importance: Refers to something less important or not primary.
  • Example: "Safety is a secondary consideration after quality."
• Derived or dependent: Refers to something that is not original or primary in nature.
  • Example: "A secondary source provides analysis of primary data."
• Relating to secondary education: Refers to schools or institutions for children aged approximately 12 to 18.
  • Example: "She graduated from secondary school last year."

Noun

• A subordinate or auxiliary element: Refers to something secondary in nature or position.
  • Example: "The team relied on its secondaries for support."