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.
But the weird goat-guy in The Nun II just plays second fiddle to the titular Nun. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 5 Sep. 2025 The guy can command a screen without having to play second fiddle to an I.P. or prosthetics or a far more famous costar. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2025 Viv never felt like a second fiddle, not at all. Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 19 Aug. 2025 Dignity has always played second fiddle to having fun. Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 15 Aug. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Second fiddle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/second%20fiddle. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

second fiddle

noun
: a person who fills a secondary role

More from Merriam-Webster on second fiddle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!