secondary

[sek-uhn-der-ee] / ˈsɛk ənˌdɛr i /

ADJECTIVE

subordinate; less important

Synonyms

STRONGEST

inferior insignificant trivial unimportant

STRONG

accessory alternate auxiliary backup collateral contingent dependent dinky extra lower minor petty relief reserve second small subject subsidiary supporting tributary

WEAK

bush-league consequential inconsiderable lesser minor-league second-rate small-fry small-time subservient substract under

Antonyms

STRONGEST

consequential important significant useful valuable worthwhile

STRONG

big chief huge large main major necessary primary

WEAK

causative first-class first-rate source superior

ADJECTIVE

derivative

Synonyms

STRONG

auxiliary dependent resultant subordinate subsidiary

WEAK

borrowed consequent derivate derivational derived developed eventual indirect proximate resulting second-hand subsequent vicarious

Antonyms

STRONG

chief important necessary

WEAK

causative first-class first-rate primary source superior

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Tickets were going for more than $100 on the secondary market.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

For some people, a favorite charity can be a good secondary beneficiary.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

For investors, it may be wise to be aware of those secondary effects.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

Investors’ primary concern is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, with other factors considered secondary.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

Betsie’s graduation from secondary school in spite of the months missed with illness.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom