quarterback

American  

[kwawr-ter-bak] / ˈkwɔr tərˌbæk /

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.

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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 British  

/ ˈkwɔːtəˌbæk /

noun

1. a player in American or Canadian football, positioned usually behind the centre, who directs attacking play

2. wisdom after the event, esp by spectators

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Etymology

Origin of quarterback

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

Example Sentences

“Monday morning quarterback. Absolutely. I probably could have held off on that,” Nanos said at a news conference, with top FBI agents flanking him.

From Los Angeles Times

Just a few of the great USC quarterbacks who went on to have NFL careers, yet never won a Super Bowl.

From Los Angeles Times

So even in regards to him being our quarterback, you know, he’s not on the side, pointing at what to do.

From Los Angeles Times

The athletic-wear brand has in recent years partnered with athletes including Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, who hosted a dinner with the company ahead of the Super Bowl.

From The Wall Street Journal

It's a tale of never giving up, of character, unwavering self-belief and persistence, but also a warning for teams not to write a quarterback off too soon.

From BBC

Related Words

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