word
Wingman
A friend who supports you in social situations — originally a fighter pilot's escort.
Origin
In military aviation, the wingman is the second pilot flying beside the lead — covering blind spots, watching the lead's tail, drawing fire if necessary. The role is foundational in air-combat doctrine; the term entered popular culture through war films, then Top Gun (1986) fixed it for a generation.
Modern usage
Now almost always social — the friend who comes with you to a bar and helps with intros, conversation, or escape. Carries a faint sense of the military original (loyalty, sacrifice for the lead). Mildly dated, but still in active use.
In the wild
Bring a wingman — I'm not going to that wedding alone.— common usage