noun Uncommon

fullback

FUUL-bak

Fullback (noun) means In American football, a running back who primarily blocks for teammates and occasionally carries the ball. Example: “The fullback cleared a path for the running back to score.”

noun

In American football, a running back who primarily blocks for teammates and occasionally carries the ball.

"The fullback cleared a path for the running back to score."

In rugby, the player positioned furthest back, responsible for catching kicks and last-line defense.

"The fullback caught the high kick under pressure and cleared it to touch."

In soccer, a defender who plays on the left or right side of the back line.

"The fullback overlapped down the wing to deliver the cross."

How to use fullback

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA defensive or blocking position found in American football, rugby, and soccer, though the exact role differs by sport.

Common pairings

left fullback right fullback starting fullback

Word forms

fullbacks plural

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The _____ cleared a path for the running back to score.

Etymology

From full + back, describing the position furthest back on the field.

Frequently asked questions

What does “fullback” mean?

The word “fullback” means in American football, a running back who primarily blocks for teammates and occasionally carries the ball. In plain terms, a defensive or blocking position found in American football, rugby, and soccer, though the exact role differs by sport.

How do you pronounce “fullback”?

“Fullback” is pronounced FUUL-bak (/ˈfʊlˌbæk/ in IPA).

How do you use “fullback” in a sentence?

Here is “fullback” used in a sentence: “The fullback cleared a path for the running back to score.”

What part of speech is “fullback”?

“Fullback” is a noun.

Is “fullback” a common word?

“Fullback” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “fullback” have?

“Fullback” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in American football, a running back who primarily blocks for teammates and occasionally carries the ball.

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