quarterback

[ kwawr-ter-bak ]

noun

1. a back in football who usually lines up immediately behind the center and directs the offense of the team.
2. the position played by this back.
3. a person who leads or directs a group or activity.

verb (used with object)

1. to direct the offense of (a team).
2. to lead or direct:

   to quarterback a public-relations campaign.

verb (used without object)

1. to play the position of quarterback.

quarterback

/ ˈkwɔːtəˌbæk /

noun

1. a player in American or Canadian football, positioned usually behind the centre, who directs attacking play
2. Monday-morning quarterbacking
   wisdom after the event, esp by spectators

Word History and Origins

Origin of quarterback¹

An Americanism dating back to 1875–80; quarter + back ¹

Example Sentences

When the Rams take on the 49ers on Thursday night, the veteran quarterback will try to set a personal milestone with another error-free game.

From Los Angeles Times

On Thursday night against the San Francisco 49ers, the Rams’ quarterback won’t be chasing a record but he could achieve a personal milestone of sorts.

From Los Angeles Times

Coaches earmarked Stona as best suited to play tight end, catching passes, although his preferred position and the one he would like to pursue is defensive end, tasked with pressuring the quarterback.

From BBC

The Chargers had 11 quarterback hits and three sacks of Patrick Mahomes in the first half.

From Los Angeles Times

“He was supposed to run a corner route, so…” deadpanned the quarterback, knowing Kelce ran nothing of the sort.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• accompany
• advise
• educate
• escort
• govern
• handle
• influence
• instruct
• manage
• maneuver
• navigate
• oversee
• regulate
• see
• shepherd
• steer
• supervise
• sway
• teach
• train