# accessary

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/accessary
Updated: 2026-06-04

## Definition

a person who helps someone commit a crime but does not do the crime themselves. They are usually involved in planning or providing tools for the crime.

For teachers: a person who knowingly and voluntarily assists another in the commission of a crime without being present at the scene. Often distinguished from an accomplice by the lack of physical presence during the act.

## Examples

- The court found him guilty as an accessary to the theft.
- While the main perpetrator was arrested at the scene, his brother was later charged as an accessary for providing the stolen keys.
- Legal scholars often debate the distinction between an accessary and an accomplice, noting that the former's liability typically depends on their prior knowledge of the criminal intent.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.