second fiddle

noun

: one that plays a supporting or subservient role

Examples of second fiddle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Even if Jeanty is active and starting against the ’Fins, the second fiddle should total at least 10-12 touches. — Brad Evans, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

That’s not to say nothing happens — Cyd (an excellent Jessie Pinnick) romances a nonbinary barista and bonds with her writer aunt — but the events take second fiddle to the 16-year-old’s exhilaratingly ordinary journey of self-discovery. — Rachel Simon, Vulture, 19 June 2026

Brunson, a second-round draft pick, had fine years in Dallas but played second fiddle, at best, to Luka Doncic. — Sean Gregory, Time, 14 June 2026

In a country considered a wine capital, France’s cocktail culture has long played second fiddle. — Lane Nieset, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1809, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for second fiddle

• diddle
• griddle
• middle
• riddle

Kids Definition

second fiddle

noun

: a person who fills a secondary role