cornerback

[kawr-ner-bak]

noun

Football.

1. one of two defensive backs back positioned in the secondary between the linebackers and safeties, responsible for covering the outside areas near the sidelines against end runs and pass plays.

cornerback

/ ˈkɔːnəˌbæk /

noun

1. American football a defensive back

Word History and Origins

Origin of cornerback¹

First recorded in 1965–70; corner + back ¹

Example Sentences

Another of the league's top 10 - Denver cornerback Patrick Surtain II - then comes to town, along with two of this season's dark horses for the Super Bowl and a rookie dubbed an NFL 'unicorn'.

From BBC

The most crucial came on the final drive when cornerback DJ Harvey was called for a critical pass interference penalty.

From Los Angeles Times

With starting cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon on injured reserve, the Rams added depth to the secondary on Tuesday by signing cornerback Tre Brown.

From Los Angeles Times

No competition through USC’s preseason camp was closer than the one at cornerback, where defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn had five or so players who looked capable of stepping into a starting role.

From Los Angeles Times

The Chargers are taking a by-the-committee approach at both cornerback and tight end, which points to a lack of high-end talent at either position.

From Los Angeles Times