tackling

noun

tack·​ling ˈta-kliŋ How to pronounce tackling (audio)
 nautical often  ˈtā-

Examples of tackling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This is a difficult environment to evaluate running backs because the tackling isn’t live, but both impressed. Parker Gabriel, The Denver Post, 30 Jan. 2024 Breakdowns nearly cost San Francisco against Green Bay, then an assortment of errors (including shabby tackling) pushed them into the deep hole against Detroit. USA TODAY, 23 Feb. 2024 The 49ers’ run defense yielded 148 yards in the first half of the NFC title game to Detroit, and while edge containment will be tested, gap integrity and gang tackling must be on point. Cam Inman, The Mercury News, 11 Feb. 2024 Queen had momentary lapses but made significant progress this season with his open-field tackling. Mike Preston, Baltimore Sun, 31 Jan. 2024 He was also known for trying to protect players from concussions by reducing full-contact practices, which led to the development of the Mobile Virtual Player, a robotic tackling dummy now used by other colleges and NFL teams. Kimberlee Speakman, Peoplemag, 20 Sep. 2023 The 2015 Bronco season will emphasize basic safety fundamentals and proper tackling and blocking techniques across all age divisions. Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2024 They’re ranked in the bottom half of the league in Pro Football Focus run defense rating, and their collective tackling is even worse. Dieter Kurtenbach, The Mercury News, 18 Jan. 2024 Transfers led the Mustangs in rushing, tackling, sacks and tackles for loss. Alexis Cubit, The Courier-Journal, 18 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'tackling.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tackling was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near tackling

Cite this Entry

“Tackling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tackling. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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