third wheel

[thurd weel, hweel] / ˈθɜrd ˈwil, ˈʰwil /

NOUN

fifth wheel

Synonyms

WEAK

deadwood hanger-on lagniappe spare spare tire superfluity triviality

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Patrick became a third wheel in their life as a couple, joining them for dates and trips out of town.

From New York Times • Oct. 20, 2022

I felt like a third wheel, but in the best way.

From Los Angeles Times • May 24, 2022

He has been forever a third wheel in the sport’s love affair with Federer and Nadal.

From Washington Post • Jan. 6, 2022

Playing the third wheel was Scott Disick, aka the ex of Kourtney Kardashian.

From Fox News • Dec. 20, 2021

For as long as I can remember, she’s tried to drag a third wheel into our perfect little mix.

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy