Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
Fifth wheel
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The most appropriate meaning of the idiom "fifth wheel" is >An unneeded person.<
The idiom "fifth wheel" is used to describe someone who is not needed or wanted in a group or situation. It is often used to describe someone who is tagging along with a group of people and is not altogether welcome. The idiom comes from the fact that a carriage or wagon needs four wheels to function properly. A fifth wheel would be unnecessary and would only get in the way.
The other options are not correct.
- A much needed thing is not a "fifth wheel."
- A wealthy person is not a "fifth wheel."
- A helping hand is not a "fifth wheel."