Best man
The groom's chief supporter, who looks after the rings, gives a speech and often organises the stag party.
Also: best woman, groom's man
The best man is the groom's closest friend or brother, who supports him through the wedding, often keeps the rings and gives a speech at the reception. In English tradition the role is said to come from the practice of a friend helping to carry off a bride in earlier times, but this history is unproven. He may organise the stag party. A woman in this role may be called best woman, and the counterpart on the bride's side is the maid or matron of honour. In many countries the role is filled by a sponsor such as the koumbaro or the kum.