backbenchers

noun

1. 1

   A Member of Parliament who does not have cabinet rank, and who therefore sits on one of the backbenches or in one of the back rows of the legislature.

2. 2

   A student who does not perform well, especially one who sits at the back of the classroom.

3. 3

   A member of a team who does not usually play, but who is held in reserve.

4. 4

   (by extension) Someone who does not play an active role in a process.