As‐sist″ant (�), a. [Cf. F. assistant, p. pr. of assister.] 1. Helping; lending aid or support; auxiliary.
Genius and learning... are mutually and greatly assistant to each other.
Beattie.
2. (Mil.) Of the second grade in the staff of the army; as, an assistant surgeon.
☞ In the English army it designates the third grade in any particular branch of the staff. Farrow.