Wingman - meaning and definition
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Definition
A friend who helps you meet people you are interested in, for example by starting conversations or talking you up. The gender-neutral version is wingperson; wingwoman is also common.
At a glance
- A friend who helps you meet potential partners.
- Can start conversations, make introductions or give honest feedback.
- Wingwoman and wingperson are common variants.
- A good wingman also helps keep everyone safe and respected.
In detail
A wingman offers support when you are approaching someone: making introductions, keeping a conversation going, or giving honest feedback afterwards. On dating apps, people sometimes let a friend help write their profile or choose photos.
A good wingman also looks out for their friend's safety and respects other people's boundaries, for example backing off when someone is clearly not interested.
In a sentence
- My best friend is the best wingwoman, she introduced me to my partner.
- Bring a wingman to the speed dating night if you are nervous.
Where the word comes from
Borrowed from military aviation, where a wingman is the pilot flying alongside and protecting the lead aircraft. The social meaning became common in the late 20th century.
Common questions
What does a wingman do?
They help you connect with someone you like, for example by introducing you, joining the conversation, or helping you leave politely if it is not going well.