linebacker

/ˌlaɪnˈbækər/

/ˈlaɪnbækə/

Other forms: linebackers

A linebacker is a defensive player on an American football team. If you ever hear someone described as being "built like a linebacker," it means the person is large and strong.

There are usually three or four linebackers on the field during play. A linebacker's job is to defend the goal area of the football field against runs, and to block plays by the opposing team. Linebackers usually stand behind the line of scrimmage in front of the defensive backs known as safeties. There are several different specific kinds of linebackers, including middle, outside, strongside, and weakside.

Definitions of linebacker

1. noun

   a defensive football player who takes a position close behind the linemen
   synonyms: line backer

   type of:

   football player, footballer

   an athlete who plays American football
2. noun

   (American football) the position of a defensive football player who plays close behind the line of scrimmage
   synonyms: line backer

   type of:

   back

   (American football) the position of a player on a football team who is stationed behind the line of scrimmage