Definition
An attractive, seemingly romantic companion who accompanies a person in public solely so that one or both of the individuals can gain attention, enhance social status, or create an impression of sexual appeal.
Origins
Presumably derived from eye candy. The term has been attested in the US since 1992.
In Context
- "All About Eve (1950, FoxVideo). [Marilyn Monroe had] already had mini-roles in eight movies when she turned up as George Sanders' arm candy in the party scenes of this film."
- "Friends described her as always ready to serve as "arm candy"—that is, a pretty date—to industry players, in hopes of landing a role."
- "James is arm candy. His wife buys him all these expensive clothes. The two of them look like something out of a travel brochure: the perfect couple on vacation."
Also Said As
- armpiece