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Synonyms

quarterback

American  
[kwawr-ter-bak] / ˈkwɔr tərˌbæk /

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 British  
/ ˈkwɔːtəˌbæk /

noun

  1. a player in American or Canadian football, positioned usually behind the centre, who directs attacking play

  2. wisdom after the event, esp by spectators

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of quarterback

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Nacua became known for his infectious enthusiasm and ability to catch almost anything Rams MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford threw his way.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

This can involve commercials for local businesses — like a car dealership paying a quarterback or providing a car — or generating income through social media based on follower size.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 25, 2026

Sure, it’s a quarterback’s league, but a major focus of the upcoming NFL draft will be about getting to the quarterback.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

For the Ravens, Crosby was set to supercharge their pass rush as they chase their first Super Bowl with two-time MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

“I ever tell you I was quarterback my senior year? Threw the winning pass against Athens High in the semis. Matt was quarterback too.”

From "The Serpent King" by Jeff Zentner

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.