wide receiver

American  

noun

Football.

1. an offensive player positioned wide of the formation, as a split end, used primarily as a pass receiver.

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wide receiver British  

noun

1. American football a player whose function is to catch long passes from the quarterback

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Etymology

Origin of wide receiver

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Ah’Mari, a whip-fast sophomore wide receiver with two state championships under his belt, peered out the window as various high-school campuses passed below.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 10, 2026

University of Texas quarterback Arch Manning has an NIL valuation of $5.4 million, for example, and Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has an NIL value of $4.2 million, according to database On3.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 23, 2026

Sean McVay hopes Puka Nacua will “learn and grow” in the wake of a woman filing a lawsuit against the wide receiver as the Rams consider a contract extension.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

The Minnesota Vikings have paid tribute to wide receiver Rondale Moore after the 25-year-old was found dead at his home on Sunday.

From BBC • Feb. 22, 2026

Just like back when you and Clancy pretended to be in the Super Bowl, him the quarterback and you the wide receiver.

From "Look Both Ways" by Jason Reynolds