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Definitions

on the bench

ADJECTIVE
unemployed
Synonyms
STRONGEST
idle inactive jobless underemployed
STRONG
down free loafing
WEAK
at liberty between jobs closed-down disengaged fired laid-off leisured on layoff on the dole on the shelf out of a job out of action out of work resting unapplied unengaged unexercised unoccupied unused without gainful employment workless
Antonyms
STRONGEST
active busy working
WEAK
employed occupied

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Tyler Fredericson was on the bench at Bournemouth and captained United's Under-21 side in their Premier League International Cup defeat by Real Madrid last week.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

James flexed in front of his teammates on the bench, who stood to give their approval.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

In Islamabad, "the question is who else, who is on the bench?"

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Strange, because he wasn’t buried on the bench.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

But he just thinks for another moment, then sits down beside me on the bench and shakes his head.

From "How to Disappear Completely" by Ali Standish