Jump on the bandwagon

Meaning

Adopt a popular trend or join others in doing something.

Usage

Often carries a playful or critical tone about copying popularity.

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.

From political parades where politicians rode marching bands; the term encouraged supporters to climb aboard the wagon.

19th-century American politics coined it, and it later spread into general use for movements or trends.