Word
quarterback
Phoneticsquar·ter·back, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkwɔɹtɝˌbæk/
UK/kwˈɔːtəbˌæk/
Definitions
01football position
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Sports American English
n. the player in American football who directs the team's attack and throws the ball.
n. the offensive backfield player who initiates play, typically receiving the snap and either handing off, running, or passing the ball.
“The quarterback threw a long pass to the end zone in the final seconds of the game.”
“After the star quarterback suffered a knee injury, the team struggled to execute their complex offensive strategy during the playoffs.”
Usage
Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'quarterback sneak' or 'quarterback rating'.
Synonyms
02to lead a project
C1 · Advanced American English · Informal
v. to lead or manage a group of people or a complicated project.
v. to direct, lead, or coordinate a collective effort or complex operation.
“She was chosen to quarterback the new marketing campaign because of her great organization skills.”
“The senior partner was brought in specifically to quarterback the merger, ensuring that all legal and financial departments remained aligned throughout the transition.”
Teaching tip
This figurative use is very common in American corporate environments to describe project management.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“The Vikings’ defense will bid to shut down Caleb Williams in a battle of unbeaten teams after the Chicago quarterback inspired a record-breaking start to the season.” “The former 49ers quarterback created an uproar in 2016 when took a knee during the national anthem to protest police brutality.” Etymology
From quarter + back, in reference to the position in front of the halfback position.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Idioms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/quarterback