supplementary device

[ˌsʌp.ləˈmen.tə.ri dɪˈvaɪs]
nounpl: supplementary devices
dispositivo complementar
1. An auxiliary device or equipment designed to enhance, support, or add functionality to a primary system or apparatus
The hearing aid is a supplementary device that helps amplify sound for people with hearing loss.
O aparelho auditivo é um dispositivo complementar que ajuda a amplificar o som para pessoas com perda auditiva.
2. Equipment used in addition to standard tools or systems to improve performance, safety, or usability
The wheelchair ramp serves as a supplementary device to ensure accessibility.
A rampa para cadeira de rodas funciona como um dispositivo complementar para garantir acessibilidade.
3. In medical or technical contexts, an accessory that extends the capabilities of a primary medical instrument or machine
The monitor is a supplementary device attached to the main diagnostic equipment.
O monitor é um dispositivo complementar anexado ao equipamento de diagnóstico principal.
In Brazil, this term is frequently used in healthcare, technology, and accessibility contexts. The emphasis on assistive devices reflects growing awareness of inclusivity and accessibility needs in Brazilian society. In the USA, 'supplementary device' is commonly used in medical, educational, and assistive technology sectors to describe tools that enhance quality of life for people with disabilities.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
auxiliary deviceaccessory deviceadditional equipmentsupport devicecomplementary apparatus
Antonyms / Antônimos
primary devicemain equipmentessential apparatus

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
dispositivo complementar
Standard term used across Brazil in technical and medical contexts
São Paulo
equipamento de suporte
Commonly used in industrial and technical settings
Rio de Janeiro
dispositivo auxiliar
More formal variation used in technical documentation
Portugal
dispositivo suplementar
European Portuguese uses similar terminology with slight variation

Related Words

attachmentaccessoryauxiliaryenhancementadd-onprosthetic deviceassistive technology

Related Idioms & Phrases

add-on feature
backup system
supporting apparatus
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