English Lexicon

Quarterback

/ˈkwɔːr.tər.bæk/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #3450 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

1 sense
As noun
  1. 1

    An offensive position in American football who lines up behind the center and directs the team's offensive plays.

    "The star quarterback threw a touchdown pass in the final seconds of the game."

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Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from North American English in the late 19th century, combining 'quarter' (referring to a defensive or positional sector on the field) and 'back' (a player positioned behind the linemen). Originally coined in American football terminology, it has evolved to metaphorically describe a leader who directs strategy and coordinates team execution in various contexts.

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