arm candy en · NOUN
Pronunciation
- (Australia) audio
Etymology
Presumably derived from eye candy. The term has been attested in the US since 1992.
Meanings
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(idiomatic, uncountable) An attractive, seemingly romantic companion who accompanies a person in public solely so that one or both of the individuals can gain attention, enhance social status, or create an impression of sexual appeal.
James is arm candy. His wife buys him all these expensive clothes. The two of them look like something out of a travel brochure: the perfect couple on vacation.
2023 March 17, Ryan Gilbey, quoting Alexander Skarsgård, “Alexander Skarsgård: ‘There’s a politeness to Swedes. It’s a facade. Deep down we’re animals’”, in The Guardian, →ISSN:All About Eve (1950, FoxVideo). [Marilyn Monroe had] already had mini-roles in eight movies when she turned up as George Sanders' arm candy in the party scenes of this film.
1992 August 21, Marcia Froelke Coburn, “Marilyn’s enduring appeal”, in Chicago Tribune, archived from the original on 04 Mar 2016:Friends described her as always ready to serve as "arm candy"—that is, a pretty date—to industry players, in hopes of landing a role.
2003 February 17, Jeffrey Ressner, “Shot on location”, in Time, archived from the original on 17 Apr 2016:
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(rare, uncountable) A luxury wristwatch or some other accessory worn on the wrist.
Beyond just looking the part, this arm candy is a world-class piece of technology.
2016 March, “Do You”, in Ebony, page 50:Rack up your arm candy with this schmancy bangle, watch, and bracelet set from Anne Klein.
2024 October 8, Megan Uy, Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien, “65+ Fall Prime Day Fashion Deals Your Closet Is Begging You to Shop”, in Cosmopolitan:
Relateds
social handbag · eye candy · chest candy · trophy wife