Fifth wheel

Meaning

An unnecessary or redundant person.

Usage

Used when someone feels excluded.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

A spare or unnecessary part: the fifth wheel of a carriage is not needed, an image from the 17th century.

In English since the 17th century.