rugby

noun

rug·​by ˈrəg-bē 

often capitalized

: a football game in which play is continuous without time-outs or substitutions, interference and forward passing are not permitted, and kicking, dribbling, lateral passing, and tackling are featured

Examples of rugby in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In a rematch of last year’s final, BC High once again prevailed over Xaverian, 13-7, to repeat as Div. 1 boys rugby champions. —Marcello Rossetti, Boston Herald, 14 June 2025

Meanwhile, Southern California has 24 this century – Lakers 6, Galaxy 6, Sparks 2, Dodgers 2, Kings 2, Ducks 1, Angels 1, LAFC 1, Rams 1, and the late lamented rugby Giltinis 1. —Jim Alexander, Oc Register, 30 May 2025

Riho, a Hawaii native, and her husband, who grew up in Nevada, both play rugby and enjoy being active. —Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 18 May 2025

The dance is known abroad for being performed at matches by New Zealand’s rugby teams, and variations of it are also performed at funerals and formal welcomes. —Julia Zhong, NBC news, 5 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Rugby School, Rugby, England

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

rugby

noun

rug·​by ˈrəg-bē 

often capitalized

: a football game between two teams in which play is continuous and the team that has the ball may run with it, kick it, or pass it sideways or backward but is not allowed to block or make forward passes

Etymology

named for Rugby School in England where the game was first played

Geographical Definition

Rugby

geographical name

Rug·​by ˈrəg-bē 

town on the Avon River in Warwickshire, central England population 71,000