0

I'm trying to find a word to fit in this context:

you are a sitting _____

I want the word to show they are a follower in a teenage girl group. Like one with a head girl and the person I'm describing being a follower. I'm trying to write a song. Is there any way to do this?

Thanks

Improve this question
  • 2
    I'm not sure I understand your context sentence, as the only thing that comes to mind is, "You are a sitting duck" -- not what you're looking for. How someone would be a sitting follower is beyond me. – Jake Regier Jul 28 '15 at 16:56
  • 1
    Especially in school cliques, I've heard these referred to as "satellites" – VampDuc Jul 28 '15 at 17:10
  • 1
    I've heard them referred to as "betas" (as opposed to a "alpha-males" or "alpha-females") – Sawbones Jul 28 '15 at 17:13
1

I don't know any way to work "sitting" in there, but the phrase "second fiddle" may provide a similar sound. "Second fiddle" is defined by Merriam-Webster as "one that plays a supporting or subservient role".

The phrase comes from the world of music, in which the most accomplished and/or skillful musician for a particular instrument (violin, in this case) is assigned "first chair" in that section, and the less accomplished musicians are referred to as the second/third/fourth/etc. chairs.

A somewhat sillier variant is "second banana".

Improve this answer
  • Another somewhat similar-sounding term might be "running dog", which is defined by Merriam-Webster as "one who blindly follows someone else's orders". This is apparently translated from a Cold-War-era Chinese term, and is somewhat harsher in its connotation. (Unsolicited advice: Don't write checks you can't cash.) – Doug Warren Jul 28 '15 at 17:26
0

Acolyte may work, given the context.

Improve this answer
  • 3
    This is a good word that may work (as you've said) given the context. However, you should include sources and a definition. If you do that, you'll be more likely to get votes. – Jake Regier Jul 28 '15 at 17:19

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.