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.
Possibly, though Ty Johnson is even better than Cook out of the backfield (yards per target). — Michael Salfino, New York Times, 24 July 2026 But his overall workload last year could be considered a little higher than the innings count, factoring pitches thrown on backfields and work to stay ready during the playoffs before making his postseason debut in the World Series. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2026 In 2025, Reid used Smith in the backfield, in the slot and out wide, and the additions of Walker and Demercado mean Smith should profile more as a package weapon and receiver in 2026. — Kansas City Star, 11 July 2026 For a team that doesn’t have a lot of experience in the receiver room, Samuel’s versatility could be a huge benefit for the Dolphins as his ability to even line up in the backfield could present problems for opposing defenses. — Miami Herald, 5 July 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 30 Jul. 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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