A short shake is a type of handshake where one of the people involved grips the other persons fingers, preventing a proper handshake. The short shaker is seen as less of a man, and more often than not exhibits such traits as cold, sweaty, or clammy hands that resemble the touch and texture of a dead limp fish.

Noun: a friend who is usually only called upon by a friend when a more primary/prominent friend is unavailable.

Taken from the term “second string” in an athletic competition situation. In football, if the star quarterback gets injured during a play, the second string is called off the bench to replace him/her. A “Second String Friend” is essentially benched until needed, if ever.

Synonyms: Plan B, Second Choice, Secondary Friend, Benched Until Needed