0 to choose not to be in a position of responsibility in an organization or activity --
What a length of time Vincent had been silent,—he who never took a back seat for anybody!
We mustn't push ourselves forward too violently, or they'll call us cheeky, but on the other hand, if we're content to take a back seat, we may stay there for the rest of the term.
We can't help him, except by taking a back seat and letting him speak for himself.
Or is it only my horrible egotism and vanity, that can't take a back seat quietly?
I've done good service in my time, and no one likes to see himself deprived of an honoured title, or forced to take a back seat.