noun Uncommon

linebacker

Linebacker (noun) means In American football, a defensive player positioned just behind the defensive line, responsible for stopping runs and covering short passes. Example: “The linebacker read the play and tackled the runner for a loss.”

noun

In American football, a defensive player positioned just behind the defensive line, responsible for stopping runs and covering short passes.

"The linebacker read the play and tackled the runner for a loss."

How to use linebacker

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA defensive football player who lines up behind the front line to stop runs and short passes.

Word forms

linebackers plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “linebacker” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ read the play and tackled the runner for a loss.

Etymology

From line (the defensive line) plus backer — a player who backs up the line.

Synonyms

View more →

line backer

Rhymes for linebacker

acker hacker backer Packer cracker slacker blacker attacker hijacker firecracker safecracker

See all rhymes for linebacker →

Frequently asked questions

What does “linebacker” mean?

The word “linebacker” means in American football, a defensive player positioned just behind the defensive line, responsible for stopping runs and covering short passes. In plain terms, a defensive football player who lines up behind the front line to stop runs and short passes.

How do you use “linebacker” in a sentence?

Here is “linebacker” used in a sentence: “The linebacker read the play and tackled the runner for a loss.”

What part of speech is “linebacker”?

“Linebacker” is a noun.

Is “linebacker” a common word?

“Linebacker” is an uncommon word in modern English.