accessory
UK[əkˈsɛsəri]US[əkˈsɛsəri]
n
A thing which can be added to something else in order to make it more useful, versatile, or attractive.
n
A person who helps another commit a crime but is not present when it happens.
Morpheme Breakdown
access
ory
access
approach, entrance
ory
pertaining to, serving for
Etymology
The word 'accessory' originates from the Late Latin term 'accessorius', which itself is derived from the Latin verb 'accedere' (to approach, to be added). The core morpheme 'access' carries the fundamental sense of an addition or something that approaches the main object. The suffix '-ory' transforms this into an adjective (and later noun) denoting a thing that serves a supplementary function. Over time, its legal application to a secondary party in a crime developed from the idea of a supplementary agent, while its common use for fashion or functional additions retains the original sense of a non-essential but contributing item.
Analysis
Structure: access + ory
access (Latin, meaning "approach, entrance"); ory (Latin suffix, meaning "pertaining to, serving for").
Examples
She bought a new handbag as a fashion accessory.
The phone case with a built-in battery is a useful accessory.
He was charged as an accessory to the robbery for providing the getaway car.