English

Noun

second fiddle ‎(plural second fiddles)

1. (music) A fiddle part in harmony to the first fiddle.

   The second fiddle on that tune is almost as hard as the first fiddle.

2. (music) The person playing second fiddle.

   I've been second fiddle in that orchestra for ten years now.

3. (idiomatic) A sidekick or subordinate, or the role of such a person.

   I'm tired of being your second fiddle!

   • 1987, Joyce Brandon, Lady and the Lawman (page 346)

     Listen, buttercup, you're damned good in bed. They don't come any better, but I'm really not interested in playing second fiddle to your camera or your young lovers.

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Related terms

See also

• second banana