# halfback

/ˈhæfˌbæk/ (US) · /hˈɑːfbæk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/halfback
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a player in American football or rugby who plays in the middle of the field. They help the team move the ball forward and protect the quarterback.

For teachers: a player in American football or rugby who occupies a position in the middle of the field. In American football, they are typically responsible for blocking and protecting the quarterback; in rugby, they are part of the backline.

## Examples

- The halfback caught the ball and ran toward the goal.
- The team's halfback is known for his speed and ability to break through the defensive line.
- In modern rugby, the halfback must possess both the tactical intelligence to direct the play and the physical stamina to support the forwards during the initial scrum.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.