# right hand man

CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/right-hand-man
Updated: 2026-07-28

## Definition

the most important person who helps someone get their work done. This person is usually very loyal and you can trust them with your most difficult tasks.

For teachers: a chief assistant or loyal associate who provides essential support to a person in a position of authority. Although the term is gendered, it is frequently applied regardless of the assistant's gender in casual contexts.

## Examples

- He is the manager's right hand man.
- The CEO relied on her right hand man to handle all the difficult negotiations while she focused on the company's long-term vision.
- In historical narratives, the success of a great leader is often attributed to a loyal right hand man who managed the logistics of the campaign with invisible efficiency.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used as a compound noun; despite the word 'man', it is often used figuratively for any top assistant.

---

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.