wide receiver

American  

noun

Football.

1. an offensive player positioned wide of the formation, as a split end, used primarily as a pass receiver.

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wide receiver British  

noun

1. American football a player whose function is to catch long passes from the quarterback

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Etymology

Origin of wide receiver

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba emerged as the top pass catcher in the sport.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 9, 2026

Wide receiver Cooper Kupp, who grew up as a Seahawks fan, joined Seattle last March after he was released by the Los Angeles Rams.

From Barron's • Feb. 7, 2026

Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith snagged a pass with one hand near the sideline, drawing audible amazement from the crowd of 104,168.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 15, 2025

Wide receiver Pat Bryant, who grew up in Florida, had not been out of the US before helping the Denver Broncos beat the Jets at Tottenham this month.

From BBC • Oct. 20, 2025

Wide receiver: Vance Spafford, Mission Viejo, 5-11, 175, Jr. — The Georgia commit had 57 receptions for 1,017 yards and 15 touchdowns while also blocking two punts.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 22, 2024