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.
Plus, Smith was the Chiefs’ favorite pass-receiving target out of the backfield with 25 receptions for 172 yards and a touchdown. — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 3 Sep. 2026 Harris has looked impressive in his return from a torn Achilles tendon, so the question is how quickly his role will grow in the backfield. — Dan Duggan, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026 Johnson, a second-year back, figures to challenge Lloyd for carries in the Packers' backfield. — Jim Reineking, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2026 Highland senior defensive end Jace Harris sliced into the backfield to make a tackle for a loss during the first series against visiting Whiting on Friday. — Michael Osipoff, Chicago Tribune, 29 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for backfield

See All Rhymes for backfield

Browse Nearby Words

back-fence
backfield
back file
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Backfield.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backfield. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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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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