halfback

noun

half·​back ˈhaf-ˌbak How to pronounce halfback (audio)
ˈhäf-
1
: one of the backs stationed near either flank in football
2
: a player stationed immediately behind the forward line (as in field hockey, soccer, or rugby)

Examples of halfback in a Sentence

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.
Quarterback Jordan Love has seven touchdowns passes and no interceptions in the last four games and halfback Josh Jacobs has nine touchdowns in the last five games, scoring in each. Jack Magruder, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024 Speaking of injuries, the 49ers have been unable to overcome the loss of halfback Christian McCaffrey, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and several of their key defenders during a deep fade down the stretch. Jack Magruder, Forbes, 24 Dec. 2024 Maryland took a 6-0 lead into halftime on a 15-yard touchdown run by halfback Ed Vereb. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 9 Nov. 2024 But while Jackson is more like a halfback who runs for more yards, Allen is like a fullback who can be trusted to pick up the necessary yards in a short yardage situation. Harry Enten, CNN, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for halfback 

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of halfback was in 1882

Dictionary Entries Near halfback

Cite this Entry

“Halfback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/halfback. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

halfback

noun
half·​back ˈhaf-ˌbak How to pronounce halfback (audio)
ˈhȧf-
1
: a football back who lines up toward the right or left side of the formation
2
: a player positioned behind the forward line in some games (as soccer or field hockey)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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