ENGLISH
REFERENCE

aftermarket

n. countable
C1 Advanced US //ˈæftɝˌmɑɹkɪt// UK //ˈɑːftəmˌɑːkɪt// af·ter·mar·ket

n. the market for parts, accessories, and repairs that you buy after you have already purchased the original product. It is common in the car and electronics industries.

n. the secondary market for goods and services related to a primary product after its initial sale. Refers to the trade in replacement parts, maintenance, and enhancements.


SIMPLE

The company makes a lot of money from the car aftermarket.

CONTEXTUAL

While the initial sale of the printer was cheap, the company relies on the aftermarket for expensive ink cartridges to make a profit.

COMPLEX

A robust aftermarket for vintage watch components ensures that collectors can maintain their timepieces even decades after the original manufacturer has ceased production of specific mechanical parts.

Origin

From after- + market.

Usage

Often used as a modifier before another noun (e.g., 'aftermarket parts').

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