backfield

American  

[bak-feeld] / ˈbækˌfild /

noun

Football.

1. (used with a plural verb) the members of the team who, on offense, are stationed behind the linemen and, on defense, behind the linebackers.

2. their positions considered as a unit.

3. the area where the backs play.

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backfield British  

/ ˈbækˌfiːld /

noun

1. (sometimes functioning as plural) the quarterback and running backs in a team

2. the area behind the line of scrimmage from which the backfield begin each play

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Etymology

Origin of backfield

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15; back ¹ + field

Example Sentences

Reed said the “sky is the limit” for the four-star freshman, who could play any number of positions in Patterson’s defensive backfield.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 23, 2026

Scotland and Ireland both fielded the backfield barrage, with catchers trumping England in the air and their energised team-mates well positioned to scoop up any loose-ball from spills.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2026

Smith-Njigba has given opposing defensive coaches nightmares all season as he can be deployed anywhere -- his explosive runs come from out wide, in the slot, or even the backfield.

From Barron's • Feb. 7, 2026

The play was a quarterback draw, calling for Mendoza to pause for a beat in the backfield, let the defense flow around him and then run straight into the teeth of the opposition.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 20, 2026

On the field, Walker ran side by side with his teammate in the backfield and best friend, Byron Miles.

From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger