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Region: US | Usage example: She rode shotgun on the ride to the conference.

Ride shotgun

Meaning

Sit beside the driver or take a trusted second-in-command role.

Usage

Used literally for car rides and figuratively for trusted deputies.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Stagecoach guards once sat beside the driver with a shotgun for defense.

19th-century western travel gave the expression its imagery.

Related Idioms

Ride for the brand

Stay loyal to the organization or team that you represent.

Ride the gravy train

Benefit from easy, often unearned profits.

Ride out the storm

Endure hardship until it passes.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.