second banana

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.

“The Flash,” directed by Andy Muschietti from a script by Christina Hodson, shrewdly keeps Barry in don’t-get-no-respect mode even as it moves this self-deprecating second banana front and center.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 15, 2023

The renovation offered the museum an opportunity to “give the David some competition” by better showcasing other pieces in the collection that often end up playing second banana to Michelangelo’s masterpiece, Ms. Hollberg said.

From New York Times • Nov. 28, 2022

In one scene, efforts are made to placate bruised second banana Desi with an executive producer credit for "I Love Lucy."

From Salon • Jan. 2, 2022

A second banana was the second most important person in an organization.

From Washington Post • Jul. 4, 2021

I did the same with the second banana.

From "The Honest Truth" by Dan Gemeinhart