n.
1.someone who takes the place of another (as when things get dangerous or difficult)
2.a person who reduces the intensity (e.g., of fears) and calms and pacifies
3.a pitcher who does not start the game
Idiom of the Day
kill the fatted calf
to prepare a big feast (in someone's honor)
We decided to kill the fatted calf and have a big dinner for my uncle.