# lineman

/ˈɫaɪnmən/ (US) · /lˈaɪnmən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lineman
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a person whose job is to build or repair electrical or phone lines. It can also refer to a player on the front line in American football.

For teachers: a worker responsible for the installation and maintenance of electrical power or telecommunications lines; also a player positioned on the line of scrimmage in American football.

## Examples

- The lineman climbed the pole to fix the power line.
- The offensive lineman must possess both immense physical strength and quick footwork to protect the quarterback from the opposing team's defensive rush during a high-stakes play.

## Usage notes

- The term is traditionally gendered but remains the standard industry title; 'lineworker' is sometimes used as a gender-neutral alternative.

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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.