auxiliary
/ɔːkˈsɪli.əɹi/
Group 32Difficulty 1/3
Definitions
- (adjective)
- Providing supplementary or additional help and support GRE
- (noun)
- A person or thing providing supplementary help GRE
Example in Context
The hospital activated its auxiliary power systems when the main grid failed during the hurricane, ensuring uninterrupted care for critical patients.
Synonyms
backupsupportingsecondary
Etymology
Derived from Latin 'auxilium', meaning helper, indicating support.
- aux- (Latin) — to help
Memory Aid
🦎Sounds like “a silly lizard”
Imagine a SILLY LIZARD offering to HELP you with your homework — it’s an AUXILIARY tutor!
Visual Association
🤝A friendly lizard giving a thumbs up while helping a student with schoolwork.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “auxiliary” mean on the GRE?
auxiliary (adjective) means “Providing supplementary or additional help and support”. The hospital activated its auxiliary power systems when the main grid failed during the hurricane, ensuring uninterrupted care for critical patients.
How to remember “auxiliary” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “auxiliary” sounds like “a silly lizard”. Imagine a SILLY LIZARD offering to HELP you with your homework — it’s an AUXILIARY tutor!
What are synonyms for “auxiliary”?
Common synonyms: backup, supporting, secondary.