linebacker

[lahyn-bak-er]

noun

Football.

1. a player on defense who takes a position close behind the linemen.

2. the position played by this player.

linebacker

/ ˈlaɪnˌbækə /

noun

1. a defensive player in American or Canadian football who is positioned just behind the line of scrimmage

Word History and Origins

Origin of linebacker¹

First recorded in 1960–65; line ¹ + backer

Example Sentences

They also gave more opportunities to young players such as freshman linebacker Scott Taylor in a bid to identify new playmakers.

From Los Angeles Times

Well, it was Reach’s father who suggested he start practicing as a long snapper several years ago to make himself more versatile since he also was a linebacker.

From Los Angeles Times

“He’s the older statesman guy over here,” Skipper said of a coach who was Fresno State’s defensive coordinator a quarter of a century ago when Skipper was a middle linebacker.

From Los Angeles Times

At the same time, McRee sprinted through the seam, taking a linebacker with him.

From Los Angeles Times

Imagine how often that flag could be raised each time Elyjah Staples, the school’s star outside linebacker, earned an A on his report card?

From Los Angeles Times