Definition & Meaning of "tertiary character"

Who is a "tertiary character"?

A tertiary character is a minor character in a story who plays a less significant role compared to the protagonist and deuteragonist. These characters often appear in smaller, supporting roles or in brief scenes, and their presence can help advance the plot or provide context. While they are not central to the main storyline, they can still add depth to the world of the story and contribute to the development of other characters or themes.