second-string

adjective

sec·​ond-string ˌse-kən(d)-ˈstriŋ How to pronounce second-string (audio)
ˌse-kᵊŋ-
: being a substitute as distinguished from a regular (as on a ball team)

Examples of second-string in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, that performance came against the Buccaneers’ second-string defense after their starters did not play. — Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 20 Aug. 2026 Mendoza was sacked once and took several other hits playing against Houston’s second-string defense. — ABC News, 20 Aug. 2026 Sure, training camp always inflates the reputations of a receiver who can win a 50-50 ball against second-string cornerbacks. — Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 9 Aug. 2026 After all, the team needs a third quarterback to get them through the rest of training camp and through its next three preseason games without asking too much of second-string quarterback Kenny Pickett or starter Bryce Young. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 8 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for second-string

Word History

Etymology

from the reserve bowstring carried by an archer in case the first breaks

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of second-string was in 1922

Rhymes for second-string

See All Rhymes for second-string

Browse Nearby Words

second-strike
second-string
second table
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Second-string.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/second-string. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

second-string

adjective
: being a substitute player as distinguished from a regular
Etymology

from the reserve bowstring carried by an archer in case the first breaks

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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