linebacker
Americannoun
-
linebackers
plural
-
a player on defense who takes a position close behind the linemen.
-
the position played by this player.
noun
Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
Etymology
Origin of linebacker
Explanation
A linebacker is a defensive player on an American football team. If you ever hear someone described as being "built like a linebacker," it means the person is large and strong. There are usually three or four linebackers on the field during play. A linebacker's job is to defend the goal area of the football field against runs, and to block plays by the opposing team. Linebackers usually stand behind the line of scrimmage in front of the defensive backs known as safeties. There are several different specific kinds of linebackers, including middle, outside, strongside, and weakside.
Vocabulary lists containing linebacker
American Football, 2nd Quarter
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Frindle
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
I Survived the Attacks of September 11, 2001
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
See Examples For:
Fifita said the purchase was a no-brainer, especially considering his younger brother, linebacker Dash Fifita, enrolled at Arizona in January.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 10, 2026
He could have a big impact at linebacker for the Washington Commanders and soon become one of their leaders.
From BBC ● Sep. 8, 2026
“He’s a very special player,” said linebacker Desman Stephens II.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 3, 2026
Aydan Steen, a linebacker, delivered seven solo tackles in a opening win, followed by four more solo tackles against Corona Centennial.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 3, 2026
I followed, but she was met just down the hall by Vernon Holbrook, a senior linebacker.
From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam
Barring change, the Rams will travel to Australia with a roster top-heavy with tight ends, receivers and outside linebackers and — because of players’ versatility — minimal numbers at cornerback.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 30, 2026
He wanted a challenge — and he’ll get a double dose with USC’s linebackers and special teams units.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 23, 2026
Mike Ekeler was hired from Nebraska to coach linebackers, in addition to special teams, perhaps making current linebackers coach Rob Ryan expendable.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 21, 2026
“The safeties were wide enough, and the linebackers were out. It was a light box,” said quarterback coach Chandler Whitmer.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 20, 2026
Several days later, starting linebackers Ivory Christian and Chad Payne found jersies with the numbers of Irving Nimitz’s starting running backs on them.
From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
