straight man

noun

1. an entertainer who plays the part of a foil for a comic partner.

straight man

noun

1. a subsidiary actor who acts as stooge to a comedian

Word History and Origins

Origin of straight man¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

The Marines may make a man of him, but it won’t be a straight man.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The Cuban American musician, bandleader, actor and producer remains most famous for his role as Lucille Ball’s husband and straight man, Ricky Ricardo, in their iconic 1950s television series, “I Love Lucy.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“Yeah, but that doesn’t make sense in this case,” Meyers said, playing the straight man.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

I personally hate it, but for a straight man, this suit is perfect.

Read more on Salon

Musk gushes about Trump shamelessly, telling Fox News, "I love the president" and even tweeting, "I love @realDonaldTrump as much as a straight man can love another man."

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• sidekick