A supernumerary is something or someone that is extra or beyond the standard or required number. This can apply to people, objects, or abstract concepts. In the context of people, a supernumerary might be an additional employee or cast member. It often implies that the additional item or person is not strictly necessary for the primary function but serves a supporting role or provides enhancement. The presence of something supernumerary might indicate redundancy, surplus, or an added layer. The term suggests something that exists in excess of what is typical or expected. It often implies that the presence is discretionary rather than essential. This word often refers to being an additional cast member. The added extra person isn't vital to the main plot. The item or person could also be something unexpected.
Supernumerary meaning with examples
- The theater production utilized a supernumerary in the final scene to create a more dramatic effect during the coronation, though their role involved solely standing and watching, they enhanced the impact of the play. This highlighted the opulence. They were hired for a single performance for that moment. The crowd felt larger with them present.
- The company decided to hire a supernumerary administrative assistant to help with a surge in paperwork, even though the existing staff could manage the core tasks. It provided more flexibility. This was a short-term decision due to a rise in customer demand. This allowed a buffer to keep employee stress levels to a minimum.
- In the context of human anatomy, a supernumerary digit, like a sixth finger or toe, is an example of a physical characteristic beyond the norm. This can happen during birth defects. This rare condition would be a defining characteristic. This would affect the person's ability to live. A supernumerary condition needs specialist treatment.
- The architect added a supernumerary balcony to the building's design to improve the aesthetic appeal. The additional balcony added to the overall design. The change was thought about for quite a while. This also boosted the overall selling price. The owners were happy.
- The government provided a supernumerary supply of emergency rations to the citizens in case of a natural disaster. This was to prepare for a disaster. The added items gave confidence. The supplies gave peace of mind. This was well received by the citizens.
Supernumerary Synonyms
additional auxiliary excessive extra redundant spare supplemental surplus unnecessarySupernumerary Antonyms
deficient essential fundamental indispensable insufficient lacking necessary requiredSupernumerary Crossword Answers
5 Letters
EXTRA SPARE
6 Letters
EXCESS
7 Letters
SURPLUS
9 Letters
REDUNDANT
11 Letters
SUPERFLUOUS
12 Letters
SPEARCARRIER
14 Letters
SUPEREROGATORY