red rover

noun

1. a children's game in which two teams, some distance apart, face each other and take turns designating an opposing player to run toward their line. Any player who fails to break through their clasped hands becomes a member of that team.

Word History and Origins

Origin of red rover¹

An Americanism dating back to 1890–95

Example Sentences

Boys will be playing Red Rover in motorcycle jackets, cuffed jeans, monogrammed slip-on sneakers, and wrap-around shades.

From The Daily Beast

He had left in Wantagh the old scow, dignified by the name of "houseboat" to which was attached the further title of "Red Rover."

From Project Gutenberg

The "Red Rover" in its coat of bright new paint looked really fine that morning.

From Project Gutenberg

She knew the two girls had some good reason for anchoring the "Red Rover" a little distance from the shore.

From Project Gutenberg

The houseboat came about slowly; then, as the motor boat chugged away the line grew taut and the "Red Rover" began to move.

From Project Gutenberg

After a few minutes of rowing she drove the boat in alongside of the "Red Rover," then leaped out on the shore.

From Project Gutenberg