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linebacker

American  
[lahyn-bak-er] / ˈlaɪnˌbæk ər /

noun

Football.
  1. a player on defense who takes a position close behind the linemen.

  2. the position played by this player.


linebacker British  
/ ˈlaɪnˌbækə /

noun

  1. a defensive player in American or Canadian football who is positioned just behind the line of scrimmage

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of linebacker

First recorded in 1960–65; line 1 + backer

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.

Weston Port, the former San Juan Hills High standout linebacker, is finishing up his second year as a Mormon missionary on assignment in Spain.

From Los Angeles Times

After a debut that produced mixed results with a thin linebacker room, Ryan’s status has been up in the air over the past two months.

From Los Angeles Times

University of Montana linebacker Solomon Tuliaupupu will return to school for the 2026-’27 season after being granted a ninth year of eligibility by the National Collegiate Athletics Association.

From MarketWatch

Cornerback Devon Witherspoon sacked Maye in the first half and in the fourth quarter hit his arm on a pass that resulted in linebacker Uchenna Nwosu’s interception return for a touchdown.

From Los Angeles Times

"I really enjoy playing on grass," agreed Patriots linebacker Chad Muma.

From Barron's