riding shotgun

The phrase "riding shotgun" originated from the Wild West during the era of stagecoach travel. It refers to the person who sits beside the driver, carrying a shotgun to protect the stagecoach from potential threats such as bandits or wildlife. In modern times, "riding shotgun" has retained its meaning but is often used informally to indicate sitting in the front passenger seat of a vehicle. It can also figuratively imply being the assistant or protector in a situation.