backfield

noun

back·​field ˈbak-ˌfēld How to pronounce backfield (audio)
: the football players whose positions are behind the line of scrimmage
also : the positions themselves

Examples of backfield in a Sentence

a tackle made in the backfield The team has a strong backfield.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His suggestions included searching the market for help at safety, off the edge and in the offensive backfield. Max Dible, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2025 Aligned in the backfield to the left of Ollie Gordon II, Achane paused at the snap of the ball. Miami Herald, 30 Oct. 2025 Now, the Scorpions get to play host with the state’s leading rusher, junior Ethan Mangrum (1,861 yards rushing), in their backfield for the do-or-die affair. Matt Schubert, Denver Post, 29 Oct. 2025 But the Panthers probably weren’t knocking off the Bills regardless of the backfield split, especially with three offensive linemen leaving with injuries. Joseph Person, New York Times, 28 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for backfield

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backfield was in 1897

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Backfield.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backfield. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

backfield

noun
back·​field -ˌfēld How to pronounce backfield (audio)
: the football players who line up behind the line of scrimmage
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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