double-team

[ duhb-uhl-teem ]

verb (used with object)

1. to defend against or block (an opposing player) by using two players, as in football or basketball:

   By double-teaming the end the safety men left the other receiver in the open.

2. to use two people in the handling of:

   The company is double-teaming the more complicated jobs with both a scientist and a group manager.

Word History and Origins

Origin of double-team¹

An Americanism dating back to 1835–45

Example Sentences

“We trapped him. We double-teamed him. We flew around behind him.”

From Seattle Times

The Gamecocks’ star center was being double-teamed when she caught the ball, so she passed it to Johnson for the 3.

From Seattle Times

“Even when we double-teamed him, he got away from us. Look, he’s a great player and that’s why every second of every minute of every game matters.”

From Seattle Times

The Huskers also double-teamed her up high and then went to a gimmick defense, the box-and-one, to shut her down late.

From Seattle Times

The Huskies double-teamed fifth-year forward Isaac Jones in the post and took their chances with everyone else, including Rice, who burned them when it mattered most.

From Seattle Times