Removed from a game or removed from play; can be applied to any situation where one is not permitted to participate in an activity.
Derived from the sporting world where players often sit on a bench when not playing. A player can be benched for many reasons including but not limited to: playing or performing poorly or sucking, disobeying the coach or leader, unsportsmanlike conduct, not following the game plan, showing up late, etc.
Coach says I'm benched because I can't catch today.
Man I thought I had a chance with that cute girl over there but she totally benched me.
You’re online dating using tinder or hinge or whatever app and you’re getting along with someone, eventually you get their number and set a date but instead of ghosting you they put you on the bench while they talk to someone else to see who is better worthy of your time and effort making ‘you’ a benchwarmer.
Bro I got this girls number and I asked her out for Saturday night and she said yes.. it’s been three days since I’ve heard from her but I think we are still on, should I ask or do you think I’m being benched?