paranymph

n. [ L. paranymphus, Gr. &unr_;; para` beside, near + &unr_; a bride: cf. F. paranymphe. ] 1. (Gr. Antiq.) (a) A friend of the bridegroom who went with him in his chariot to fetch home the bride. Milton. (b) The bridesmaid who conducted the bride to the bridegroom. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Hence: An ally; a supporter or abettor. Jer. Taylor. [ 1913 Webster ]