# benched

/bˈɛntʃt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/benched
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

to sit on the bench instead of playing in a game. In a more general way, it means to keep someone away from a job or activity because they are not performing well.

For teachers: to sit on the bench rather than participating in a game or competition. In a broader sense, to exclude someone from a position of activity or responsibility, often due to poor performance or disciplinary action.

## Examples

- The coach benched the star player for the second half.
- After several weeks of poor sales, the manager benched the marketing team to review their strategy.
- The team's performance suffered significantly once the coach benched the veteran center, as the younger players lacked the experience to maintain the defensive structure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.