| Library / English Dictionary |
SUPERNUMERARY
| Pronunciation (US): |  | (GB): | |
I. (noun)
Sense 1
Meaning:
A minor actor in crowd scenes
Synonyms:
extra; spear carrier; supernumerary
Classified under:
Hypernyms ("supernumerary" is a kind of...):
actor; histrion; player; role player; thespian (a theatrical performer)
Sense 2
Meaning:
A person serving no apparent function
Example:
reducing staff is difficult because our employees include no supernumeraries
Classified under:
Nouns denoting people
Hypernyms ("supernumerary" is a kind of...):
individual; mortal; person; somebody; someone; soul (a human being)
Derivation:
supernumerary (more than is needed, desired, or required)
II. (adjective)
Sense 1
Meaning:
More than is needed, desired, or required
Example:
surplus cheese distributed to the needy
Synonyms:
excess; extra; redundant; spare; supererogatory; superfluous; supernumerary; surplus
Classified under:
Similar:
unnecessary; unneeded (not necessary)
Derivation:
supernumerary (a person serving no apparent function)
