second banana

American  

noun

Informal.

1. a comic who supports the leading comedian, often as a straight man, especially in burlesque or vaudeville.

2. any person who plays a secondary role or serves in a subsidiary capacity.

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second banana Idioms  

1. see under top banana.

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Etymology

Origin of second banana

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

I think his experience playing with Russell Westbrook in Oklahoma City primed him for this because he’s not the career-long, first option who now has to play second banana.

From Los Angeles Times

But the artistic and commercial success of a movie is just as dependent on the property itself: If stars are involved, they could easily be playing second banana to snazzy CGI effects or de-aging techniques.

From Washington Post

The film benefits from committed, laser-focused performances from DiCaprio and Pitt, the latter of whom especially brings a sly knowingness to the subtleties of playing second banana.

From Washington Post

That he usually played second banana on TV did not bother Mr. Conway.

From Washington Post

After Benson meets and challenges Jamieson on his turf, he is mentored by his new rival until getting fed up with a second banana role and decides to trump the teacher at his own games.

From Washington Times