wingman

American  

[wing-man] / ˈwɪŋˌmæn /

Or wing man

noun

1. Air Force. a pilot in a plane that flies just outside and behind the right wing of the leading aircraft in a flight formation, in order to provide protective support.

2. Slang.

   1. a man who helps, protects, or guides a friend or associate.

      the CEO’s troubleshooting wingman.

   2. a man who helps a friend with romantic relationships, especially one who helps the friend attract a woman.

      When I walked into the bar, my wingman was already there, talking to two women.

3. Sports. winger.

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wingman British  

/ ˈwɪŋmæn /

noun

1. a player in the wing position in Australian Rules

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Etymology

Origin of wingman

First recorded in 1940–45; wing + man

Example Sentences

The wingman pilot then abruptly flew his jet up higher and flipped it so that it could be better captured on camera.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

But the two F-15K jets eventually collided, damaging the lead aircraft's left wing and the wingman aircraft's tail stabiliser.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Loyal wingman drones would likely be essential in any such conflict, according to Michael Horowitz, who served as U.S. deputy assistant secretary of defense in charge of emerging capabilities under the Biden administration.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

The loyal wingman is a type of AI-powered drone designed to operate in tandem with manned fighter jets and other aircraft, providing reconnaissance and carrying extra weapons.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

Lilya became the wingman for another man, Alexei Solomatin.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein