supernumerary
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌsuːpəˈnjuːmərəri/
KK: /ˌsuːpərˈnjuməˌrɛri/
adjective
Definition
More than what is needed or allowed; extra or additional beyond the usual number.
Example
The supernumerary staff helped during the busy season, ensuring everything ran smoothly.
Conversation
Did you notice how many people showed up to the meeting today?
Yeah, it felt a bit crowded, almost supernumerary for a regular discussion.
Exactly! I think they might have invited too many guests this time.
I agree, it made it hard to have a focused conversation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
extra
superfluous
excess
Antonyms
necessary
required
limited
noun
Definition
A person or thing that is in addition to the usual number, often referring to an actor who does not have a speaking role but appears in a scene.
Example
The play had several supernumeraries who added to the crowd scene without speaking.
Conversation
Did you see the play last night?
Yeah, it was great! I noticed a supernumerary in the crowd scene.
Right? They really added to the atmosphere.
Root Explanation
Supernumerary → It is formed from "super-" (meaning above or beyond) and "numerus" (meaning number). The word refers to someone or something that is in addition to the usual number or exceeds the expected count.
Memory Tip
Think of 'above' ('super-') the usual 'number' ('numerus') — that's why supernumerary means someone or something that is extra or beyond the normal count.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.