13th Boy

The term "13th Boy" is a colloquialism, primarily used within certain subcultures, particularly online gaming communities, to describe a situation where an individual is an unwelcome or excess participant in a small, established group, often a friend group or gaming team. It implies that the individual is perceived as redundant, unwanted, or unable to properly integrate with the existing dynamic.

The origin of the term likely stems from the idea of a group being considered 'complete' or optimally sized at a certain number, and anyone beyond that number feeling superfluous. The number "13" may be used simply for illustrative purposes to denote an excess member or to play on superstitions associated with the number. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who consistently feels left out, overlooked, or as if they don't quite belong in a given social context.

The usage of "13th Boy" can range from lighthearted banter amongst friends to more serious expressions of social exclusion. The impact of the term often depends on the context and the relationship between the people involved. The term is generally considered informal and often carries a negative connotation. While most instances involve social groups that are generally male, the phrase is sometimes applied to all-female or mixed-gender groups where the excess is being pointed out. In these instances, the intent is usually to denote someone who is surplus to requirements or unwelcome.