buddy system

noun

1. (in swimming and scuba diving) the practice of pairing swimmers, each being responsible for the other's safety.
2. any arrangement whereby two or more persons, teams, etc., watch out for each other, as with mountain climbers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of buddy system¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Although he enjoys hunting by himself, Hardinge says the buddy system is always good practice.

From Outside Online

In those bygone days before cell phones, they had to rely on an elaborate “buddy system,” a telephone tree, and pay phones.

From The Daily Beast

At least that show is designed to look like that good old-fashioned Lethal Weapon ebony-and-ivory buddy system.

From The Daily Beast