fullback

noun

full·​back ˈfu̇l-ˌbak How to pronounce fullback (audio)
1
: an offensive football back used primarily for line plunges and blocking
2
: a primarily defensive player usually stationed nearest the defended goal (as in soccer or field hockey)

Examples of fullback 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.
First, which of their two fullbacks would have the best chance to make the 53-man roster. — Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 Kleinhans completed 5 of 10 passes for 156 yards and two TDs, while senior fullback Graham Schwab added 119 yards on nine carries. — Rick Armstrong, Chicago Tribune, 23 Aug. 2026 Also starting were wide receivers Douglas, Jalen Tolbert, running back Jaylen Wright, fullback DJ Herman and tight end Will Kacmarek. — David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026 Kansas City has been without fullbacks Ellie Bravo-Young (thigh), Laney Rouse (knee) and Kolo Suliafu (thigh). — Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fullback

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of fullback was in 1875

Rhymes for fullback

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Browse Nearby Words

full automatic
fullback
full bath
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Cite this Entry

“Fullback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fullback. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

fullback

noun
full·​back ˈfu̇l-ˌbak How to pronounce fullback (audio)
1
: a football back who usually lines up between the halfbacks
2
: a mainly defensive player (as in soccer or field hockey) who usually plays near the goal to be defended
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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