quarterback

[ kwawr-ter-bak ]

noun

1. a back in football who usually lines up immediately behind the center and directs the offense of the team.
2. the position played by this back.
3. a person who leads or directs a group or activity.

verb (used with object)

1. to direct the offense of (a team).
2. to lead or direct:

   to quarterback a public-relations campaign.

verb (used without object)

1. to play the position of quarterback.

quarterback

/ ˈkwɔːtəˌbæk /

noun

1. a player in American or Canadian football, positioned usually behind the centre, who directs attacking play
2. Monday-morning quarterbacking
   wisdom after the event, esp by spectators

Word History and Origins

Origin of quarterback¹

An Americanism dating back to 1875–80; quarter + back ¹

Example Sentences

She plays point guard on the basketball team, catcher and shortstop on the softball team and Wednesday afternoon she quarterbacked the school’s first flag football squad into the City Open Division championship game.

From Los Angeles Times

Even with seven players removed from its roster because of ineligibility, the Gauchos still have quarterback Jaden O’Neal, an Oklahoma commit, and running back/linebacker Mark Iheanachor, a Southern Methodist commit.

From Los Angeles Times

A physical, running offense to complement quarterback Justin Herbert was a top priority for first-year offensive coordinator Greg Roman, who also coached Dobbins in Baltimore.

From Los Angeles Times

Foster said he’s also revived a friendship with former USC quarterback Carson Palmer now that Palmer has moved back to California from Idaho.

From Los Angeles Times

Since quarterback Bear Bachmeir returned from a knee injury on Oct.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• accompany
• advise
• educate
• escort
• govern
• handle
• influence
• instruct
• manage
• maneuver
• navigate
• oversee
• regulate
• see
• shepherd
• steer
• supervise
• sway
• teach
• train