touch football

American  

noun

1. an informal variety of football in which the touching, usually with both hands, of a ball-carrier by a member of the opposing team results in a down.

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touch football British  

noun

1. an informal version of American football chiefly characterized by players being touched rather than tackled

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Etymology

Origin of touch football

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Whether it’s a group stroll, touch football game on the lawn, quick bike ride, run, or impromptu dancing to “Shake It Off,” moving your body aids digestion, regulates blood sugar, eases tension and promotes relaxation.

From Salon • Nov. 26, 2025

As far as the touch football game, my only advice is to kickoff in daylight.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 26, 2025

On a recent morning, National Guards troops — some dressed in full combat fatigues, others in T-shirts and shorts — could be seen exercising, milling about and playing a game of touch football.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 17, 2025

The spoof opens with the squeaky-clean Manning playing touch football with the group, encouraging everyone in the huddle to practice teamwork and have fun.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 10, 2024

I met my friend Nigel because he lived down the hall in college from my friend Tom, whom I met because in freshman year he invited me to play touch football.

From "The Tipping Point" by Malcolm Gladwell