supernumary

Adjective

supernumerary (not comparable)

1. Greater in number than.
   • This method applies to the observation of angles, usually obtained by repetitions; and instead of equating directions, as in the first method, its object is to furnish the most probable values for the several observed angles from a supernumerary number of angles.1855, Chas. A. Schott, “[Appendix] Adjustment of Horizontal Angles of a Triangulation”, in Report of the Superintendent of the Coast Survey, Showing the Progress of the Survey during the Year 1854...
2. Beyond the prescribed or standard amount or number; excess, extra.
   • I believe a hive, or swarm, has but one queen, at least I have never found more than one in a swarm, or in an old hive in the winter; and probably this is what constitutes a hive; for when there are two queens, it is likely that a division may begin to take place. Supernumerary queens are mentioned...1792 February 23, John Hunter, “VIII. Observations on Bees.”, in Philosophical Transactions. Giving Some Account of the Present Undertakings, Studies, and Labours, of the Ingenious, in Many...

   Synonyms:

   epactal

   1. (specifically) Of an organ or structure: additional to what is normally present.
      • a supernumerary nipple; a supernumerary tooth
3. Beyond what is necessary; redundant.
   • Resolved, that the Curators be authorized to exchange with other societies or individuals, such duplicate or supernumerary specimens of coins, medals, minerals and other articles as they may deem unnecessary to be retained in the Cabinet of the Society, for such other specimens, of equal value, as...1853 January–June, “Stated Meeting, May 6”, in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, held at Philadelphia, for Promoting Useful Knowledge, volume V, number 49, Philadelphia, Pa.: Printed...

   Synonyms:

   superfluous, unnecessary, unneeded, unwanted

See all 9 meanings of supernumerary