Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

rusher

American  
[ruhsh-er] / ˈrʌʃ ər /

noun

  1. a person or thing that rushes.

  2. Football. a player whose assignment is to rush or whose special skill is rushing.


Etymology

Origin of rusher

1645–55; 1875–80 rusher for def. 2; rush 1 + -er 1

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.

The Jets are behind in their transition but pass rusher David Bailey, tight end Kenyon Sadiq and receiver Omar Cooper all add star talent as first-round picks.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

A look at every player picked by the Chargers during the 2026 NFL draft, which included the franchise selecting a pass rusher with their top pick.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2026

The Washington Commanders took pass rusher Sonny Styles with the seventh pick.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

The strongest area in this year's draft class was thought to be the defensive front and the New York Jets took pass rusher David Bailey with the second pick.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

On offense they averaged 364 yards a game, and they had the leading rusher in the district in Dwane Roberts.

From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "rusher" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com