A wingman is the friend who helps someone pursue a romantic interest. The role can include starting conversations, creating openings, offering encouragement, or simply providing social cover so the approach feels less exposed.

The term comes from aviation, where a wingman flies beside and slightly behind the lead pilot for mutual support. In social settings the metaphor stuck. A good wingman reads the situation, supports without overshadowing, and knows when to step back.

The job is not always glamorous. It can involve listening to nerves beforehand and absorbing the occasional awkward moment. When it works, both people leave the interaction better than they started. When it fails, the wingman still usually leaves with the friendship intact.

The concept has expanded slightly. People sometimes speak of a wingman or wingwoman in professional or social networking contexts, but the romantic usage remains the primary one. At its best the role is an act of practical friendship.