second fiddle

noun

: one that plays a supporting or subservient role

Examples of second fiddle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Often playing second fiddle to other stars in Judgment Day over the past couple of years, Balor is reportedly in line for a significant singles push in 2025. Blake Oestriecher, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024 Arriving at Real, however, Mbappé would for the first time be playing second fiddle. Matias Grez, CNN, 10 Dec. 2024 Jimmy is in a prominent supporting role all over this episode, playing second fiddle to Gaby, Alice, and Liz. Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 6 Nov. 2024 All of this is ignoring the Dodgers' Mookie Betts and Yankees' Juan Soto, who play second fiddle on their respective teams, but are also likely among the top 10 players in baseball. Mark Osborne, ABC News, 25 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for second fiddle 

Word History

First Known Use

1809, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of second fiddle was in 1809

Dictionary Entries Near second fiddle

Cite this Entry

“Second fiddle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/second%20fiddle. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

second fiddle

noun
: a person who fills a secondary role

More from Merriam-Webster on second fiddle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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