number two

American  

noun

1. someone or something that is second in rank, order, or importance.

2. defecation: used especially by or with reference to children.

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idioms

1. make / do / go number two, to defecate: used especially by or with reference to children.

number two British  

noun

1. euphemistic the act or an instance of defecation

2. a haircut in which the hair is cut close to the head with an electric shaver

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Etymology

Origin of number two

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

World number two Jannik Sinner plays Czech 21st seed Jiri Lehecka in the men's singles final on Sunday.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

The supervisors appointed Curtis in a 3-2 vote, passing over Joanna Francescut, who had worked in the elections office since 2008 and was Darling Allen’s number two.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

He chose as his number two a heavy metal guitarist from San Francisco — stage name “Turmoil” — who is a progressive Democrat.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

In the men's draw, world number two Jannik Sinner comfortably beat Damir Dzumhur 6-3 6-3, while Alexander Zverev beat wildcard Martin Damm 6-2 6-4.

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Rule number two of battling—use the circumstances to your advantage.

From "On the Come Up" by Angie Thomas