Nov 29, 2025 · The meaning of SECOND-STRING is being a substitute as distinguished from a regular (as on a ball team). How to use second-string in a sentence.

The idiom “second string” is commonly used to refer to someone or something that is considered less important or inferior compared to another. This phrase has its roots in sports, specifically …

If you describe a person or thing as someone's second string, you mean that they are only used if another person or thing is not available. ...a second-string team. ...her second-string horse. …

The substitute players who replace the starters (or "first string") as a game goes on. A player on the second string is considered the second best player in that position.

Second string definition: the squad of players available either individually or as a team to replace or relieve those who start a game.. See examples of SECOND STRING used in a sentence.

Second string refers to someone or something that is an emergency alternative to someone or something. For instance, the understudy for the star in a Broadway show is the second string …

second-string meaning, definition, what is second-string: not regularly part of a team, group etc,...: Learn more.