Internet
back burner
What does back burner mean?
A person someone keeps as a low-priority potential romantic option, ready to pursue if their main interest falls through.
"He's not into her yet, she's just a back burner."
Origin
From cooking, where a pot is moved to the 'back burner' to simmer; applied to dating options.
Frequently asked questions
What does back burner mean in dating?
It's a person someone keeps in reserve as a low-priority romantic option, ready to pursue if their main interest doesn't work out.
Is being someone's back burner bad?
It's generally seen as unflattering, since it means you're a backup rather than someone's genuine priority.
Where does the term come from?
It comes from cooking, where a pot is moved to the back burner to simmer with less attention until it's needed.
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