lineman

[ lahyn-muhn ]

noun

, plural line·men.

1. Also a person who installs or repairs telephone, telegraph, or other wires.
2. Football. one of the players in the line, as a center, guard, tackle, or end.
3. Surveying. a person who marks the positions of a survey mark with a range pole or the like.

lineman

/ ˈlaɪnmən /

noun

1. another name for platelayer
2. a person who does the chaining, taping, or marking of points for a surveyor
3. (formerly) the member of a beach life-saving team who controlled the line used to help drowning swimmers and surfers
4. American football a member of the row of players who start each down positioned on either side of the line of scrimmage
5. another word for linesman

Gender Note

See -man.

Other Words From

• under·lineman noun plural underlinemen

Word History and Origins

Origin of lineman¹

First recorded in 1855–60; line ¹ + -man

Example Sentences

How was he able to remain composed enough to deliver a 27-yard strike to McConkey two plays later, this time with a Bengals lineman about to drive him into the turf at SoFi Stadium?

From Los Angeles Times

The former NFL offensive lineman turned Newbury Park head coach looked around at his team celebrating before gazing out at his son, Brady, as he leapt around with his teammates.

From Los Angeles Times

A smart Rams culture that rarely makes dumb mistakes committed six penalties for 64 yards, including an illegal procedure by lineman Beaux Limmer that cost them a field goal.

From Los Angeles Times

Giving the Chargers a 13-7 lead going into halftime, Herbert handed the ball to center Bradley Bozeman and the offensive lineman’s spike nearly dented the turf in the end zone.

From Los Angeles Times

After playing for the Titans last season, Molden, Fulton and defensive lineman Teair Tart all are making key contributions to the Chargers’ defense.

From Los Angeles Times