second-string

adjective

sec·​ond-string ˌse-kən(d)-ˈstriŋ 

ˌse-kᵊŋ-

: being a substitute as distinguished from a regular (as on a ball team)

Examples of second-string in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Defensive lineman Leonard Williams said the Seahawks believe Lock is the best second-string quarterback in the league. — Andrew Destin, New York Times, 16 Sep. 2026

He also was listed as the team’s second-string punt and kick returner behind Horn; now that Horn is gone, he got leap-frogged on the depth chart by John Metchie, who was inactive Week 1. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 16 Sep. 2026

The veteran comic likens the creative control he’s been granted to a second-string quarterback being entrusted to lead the team. — Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 1 Sep. 2026

However, that performance came against the Buccaneers’ second-string defense after their starters did not play. — Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 20 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

from the reserve bowstring carried by an archer in case the first breaks

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for second-string

• anything
• colouring
• everything
• nuzzling
• snorkeling
• splattering
• superstring
• underwing
• worshiping
• bing
• bring
• ching

Kids Definition

second-string

adjective

: being a substitute player as distinguished from a regular

Etymology

from the reserve bowstring carried by an archer in case the first breaks