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Definitions

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.

Viridian Therapeutics sank 24% after Amgen reported that its prescription medication for thyroid eye disease, Tepezza, met the primary and key secondary endpoints in a Phase 3 trial.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

Natasha Blackmore, 36, who was head of design technology at Westfield Academy secondary in Yeovil, Somerset, shared inappropriate details about her social life, a Professional Conduct Panel of the Teaching Regulation Agency heard.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

They do so by buying stakes in private-equity funds at big discounts on the secondary market.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Check the policies to see how your purchase is guaranteed if you go the secondary seller route.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Too bold; better to start on the periphery and work my way in toward my final objective, gathering intel, studying the secondary targets in order to acquire data about the main objective.

From "Liar, Liar" by Gary Paulsen

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.