Wingman (social)
- This article is about uses of the term in social interaction. For the term in military aviation, see Wingman.
Wingman is the social role a man takes when he goes to a club or bar with an accompanying male.
Definition
The wingman provides reassurance as they approach women. The wingman is also supposed to talk with the less attractive woman (or others that might interfere) that they approach so that his companion can talk with the other, this is often referred to as "taking one for the team."
The desired woman is referred to as "the target"; the man with primary intention to "score" is called the pilot. The wingman is expected to back up the pilot, which is typically supposed to entail talking to her less attractive friend[s] and/or making comments that will make the Pilot seem more attractive to the target.
This metaphor (using several terms associated with wingman's original meaning in aviation) often centers around the presumption that men and women are separate species whose social interactions are are adversarial and easily exploited.
Typical Interactions
- Since women often go out in pairs or larger groups, the wingman helps the pilot approach them without the awkwardness of being solo.
- The wingman will sometimes take the less attractive woman of the pair so that the pilot can get the more attractive target.
- The wingman validates the trustworthiness of the pilot, so that the target knows he's not some drifter in town just to get laid.
- A wingman motivates the pilot to actually get into the social scene and practice his skills.
- The Pilot is usually the more skilled seducer, a man from whom the Wingman can learn a great deal by flying at his side.
Wingman trends
Publisher Arriviste Press even offers an online tool called the Virtual Wingman.
It is also possible for there to be a wing-woman, and in one case, a company provides "escorts" to accompany men to bars and clubs.
Famous (fictional) wingmen
- Vince Vaughn in Swingers and Wedding Crashers
- Rob Schneider in 50 First Dates
- Ben Affleck in Good Will Hunting
- Anthony Edwards as Goose in Top Gun