# midfield

/mˈɪdfiːld/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/midfield
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. the players

noun · CEFR B1

the group of players in a team who play in the middle of the field, between the defenders and the attackers.

For teachers: the collective unit of players positioned between the forwards and the defenders, responsible for linking play and controlling the centre of the pitch.

- The team has a very strong midfield that controls the game well.
- The manager decided to strengthen the midfield by bringing on a more defensive player to disrupt the opponent's passing lanes.

Usage: Often used as a collective noun to refer to the players as a unit.

### 2. the area

noun · CEFR B1

the central part of a sports field.

For teachers: the central portion of a field of play, particularly in sports like football, rugby, or lacrosse.

- Most of the action happened in the midfield during the first half.
- The ball remained trapped in the midfield for much of the second half as both teams struggled to break through the opposing defensive lines.

## Examples

- The ball stayed in the midfield for most of the game.
- The coach decided to strengthen the midfield to help control the pace of the match.
- Dominating the midfield is often the key to victory, as it allows a team to transition smoothly from defensive recovery to offensive pressure.

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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.