Coattailed

/ˈkoʊtˌteɪld/ adjective

Definition

Having coattails, or having achieved success by riding on someone else's coattails; obtained through association rather than merit.

Etymology

English participle: 'coattail' + '-ed' suffix indicating a state or quality. The metaphorical use became more common in 20th-century informal English.

Kelly Says

Politicians often worry about being 'coattailed'—winning primarily because they're running alongside a popular candidate—which is why candidates want to be on separate ballots or tickets!

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