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.
His great-great-uncle Chic Harley, a halfback, was a three-time All-American for the Buckeyes in 1916, 1917 and 1919. — Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026 The good news for Fifita is that 39 quarterbacks have won the award since 1938, the second-most behind running backs/halfbacks at 40 and ahead of wide receivers at 5, according to The Athletic. — Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Aug. 2026 Another halfback, Ray Williams, also starred and went to Washington State. — Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 7 Aug. 2026 Orange Coast halfback Mike Hunter sparked the Pirates with his all-purpose running, including three of the longest punt returns in OCC history — 89, 67 and 66 yards. — Richard Dunn, Oc Register, 6 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for halfback

See All Rhymes for halfback

Browse Nearby Words

half aunt
halfback
half-baked
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

Copy Citation

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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