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Could any native English speakers help me with some formal, informal, slang, or even some local (Scottish, Welsh, Irish, etc.) terms for "front passenger". I mean the term for a person that travels with somebody in a car (boat, aeroplane, train) next to the driver or even in the back-seat, etc.

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What is wrong with passenger? – Matt Эллен Jul 18 '12 at 7:51
It has no affiliation with the driver. The best word for me is co-driver, however I would like to avoid the word driver if possible. Is there e.g. any other word similar to co-driver? – Derfder Jul 18 '12 at 7:54
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But you ask for the "front passenger" then ask for a back-seat passenger. Which do you want? Your question is ambiguous. – Matt Эллен Jul 18 '12 at 7:55
Please, note the word "even". That means, it is the last thing I am interested in. Mostly I am interested in "front seat passenger next to the driver/pilot" term alternative. – Derfder Jul 18 '12 at 8:03
It does not mean what you think it means. Using even in that way means that it is an added requirement. E.g. I want a coat that keeps me warm, even in the middle of winter. – Matt Эллен Jul 18 '12 at 8:06
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2 Answers

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A common slang term for riding next to the driver is "to ride shotgun". Apparently there is also the term "cobain" for the seat behind the shotgun seat but I've never encountered that one. Here's a source for both usages: http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=shotgun&defid=709676

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Wow, that's interesting, thanks. – Derfder Jul 18 '12 at 8:16
You're welcome. When you scroll down in the link, you're offered an explanation on how the term allegedly came to be. – Christian Jul 18 '12 at 9:17
up vote 2 down vote

"Shotgun" is by far the most common slang term for the passenger (or more precisely, the passenger spot) that's next to the driver/pilot. "Copilot" is another term I've heard a lot, and can refer to either a literal co-pilot in an airplane as well as the metaphorical "co-pilot" of a car or other vehicle.

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In addition to "co-pilot," I've jokingly used "navigator" on occasion, particularly when the passenger would be helping me with directions, or even just holding the GPS device. – J.R. Jul 18 '12 at 9:31

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