halfback

[ haf-bak, hahf- ]

noun

1. Football.
   1. one of two backs back who typically line up on each side of the fullback.
   2. the position played by such a back.
2. (in soccer, Rugby, field hockey, etc.) a player stationed near the forward line to carry out chiefly offensive duties.

halfback

/ ˈhɑːfˌbæk /

noun

1. rugby either the scrum half or the stand-off half
2. old-fashioned.
   soccer any of three players positioned behind the line of forwards and in front of the fullbacks
3. any of certain similar players in other team sports
4. the position of a player who is halfback

Word History and Origins

Origin of halfback¹

First recorded in 1880–85; half + back ¹

Example Sentences

When the Detroit Lions unveiled an I-formation against the Bears at old Tigers Stadium, Butkus knocked every member of the “I” — the center, quarterback, fullback and halfback — out of the game.

From Seattle Times

Arizona State used a variety of trick plays - two on halfback passes - to trail by eight at halftime and pulled within 24-21 on Pyne’s 25-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Badger in the third quarter.

From Washington Times

A quietly confident all-American halfback with a sharp intellect and quick reflexes, Davis was drawn by President John F. Kennedy’s vision of the Special Forces as a sort of counterinsurgency dream team.

From Washington Post

“I played halfback, fullback and emergency tight end, and I started on five special teams. I get confused on one play, and they never let me forget it.”

From Los Angeles Times

Along with halfback Eugene “Mercury” Morris, they would form the nucleus of the Dolphins’ fearsome ’72 rushing attack.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• fullback
• tailback