-alis

of, relating to

Forms

-alis
-aris — Latin variant especially used when the stem already contained l, avoiding a repeated l sound.
-al — English ending borrowed through French or directly from Latin.
-ar — English ending continuing Latin -aris.

Origin

An older Latin adjective-forming suffix; its more remote ancestry is uncertain.

Note

Expresses a relationship without specifying its kind: material, place, purpose, and other connections are possible.

36 / 291

adjective / noun

collateral

Extending alongside a main line rather than directly within it.

The factory shutdown causes collateral damage to nearby small businesses.

Etymology

colLatintogether, with; sometimes thoroughly

+laterLatinside or flank

+alLatinof, relating to

Latin con- and latus combine the ideas of togetherness and side. Collateral describes something running beside the main line, including a related branch that does not lie directly within it.

More examples

Cousins are collateral relatives, not direct ancestors or descendants.
Cleaner air is a collateral benefit of reduced traffic.
Small collaterals carry blood around the blocked artery.

Forms

collateral · collaterals

Similar words

secondary: Emphasizes lower importance or rank, not a parallel relationship.
accompanying: Means present alongside something, without implying a side effect.
lateral: Describes sideways position or movement, not necessarily secondary status.