Fifth wheel Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun someone or something that is unwanted and unneeded
    deadwood.
  2. noun an extra car wheel and tire for a four-wheel vehicle
    spare.
  3. noun a steering bearing that enables the front axle of a horse-drawn wagon to rotate

WordNet


Definitions
  1. a horizontal wheel or segment above the fore axle of a carriage and beneath the body, forming an extended support to prevent careening.

Webster 1913