SECOND BANANAS Meaning and
Definition
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Second bananas is an idiomatic expression used to refer to individuals who occupy a subordinate or supporting role to someone else who is in a more prominent or influential position. The term originates from the world of entertainment, particularly in comedy acts or performance groups. In such comedy acts, the main performer or the lead comedian is often represented as the primary banana, symbolizing the central and dominant figure. The second banana, as the name suggests, is the secondary or supporting character, typically providing comedic relief or serving as a foil to the main person or act.
Beyond the realm of comedy, the term "second bananas" has come to denote those individuals who may play important roles but lack the same level of prominence, recognition, or authority as the primary figure. These individuals are often seen as subordinate, playing a supportive role, offering assistance, or fulfilling secondary tasks. They hold influential positions but may take a backseat when it comes to decision-making or receiving credit.
The term "second bananas" can be used in various contexts, including workplaces, politics, sports teams, or any scenario where there is a clear distinction between a leading figure and their supporting counterpart. It does not necessarily imply insignificance or irrelevance but rather highlights the subordinate position or secondary nature of the individual or group being referred to.
Common Misspellings for SECOND BANANAS
- aecond bananas
- zecond bananas
- xecond bananas
- decond bananas
- eecond bananas
- wecond bananas
- swcond bananas
- sscond bananas
- sdcond bananas
- srcond bananas
- s4cond bananas
- s3cond bananas
- sexond bananas
- sevond bananas
- sefond bananas
- sedond bananas
- secind bananas
- secknd bananas
- seclnd bananas
- secpnd bananas
Etymology of SECOND BANANAS
The phrase "second bananas" is derived from the theatrical world, particularly vaudeville and burlesque, which were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In these forms of entertainment, a comedy duo typically consisted of a more prominent lead actor or performer (the "top banana") and a supporting actor or foil (the "second banana").
The term "banana" itself originated from the 1860s and was a slang term for a comic actor or comedian. The exact reasons behind choosing "banana" are unclear, but it may be referencing the association of humor with foolishness or absurdity.
The concept of the "second banana" evolved from the physical comedy acts commonly found in vaudeville and burlesque. The second banana would often play the role of the sidekick, supporting the lead actor by reacting to their antics or setting up jokes for them.
