drop back

verb

dropped back; dropping back; drops back

intransitive verb

1
2
: to move straight back from the line of scrimmage
the quarterback drops back to pass

Examples of drop back in a Sentence

a change in the wind direction forced the firefighters to drop back
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
McNeill dropped back and scrambled for a few seconds before finding Kash Kelly in the end zone for a touchdown. Jack Murray, Boston Herald, 19 Oct. 2025 With space, Alejado dropped back and quickly spotted another wide-open target, Nick Cenacle. Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 19 Oct. 2025 Daniels took the snap out of the pistol formation and dropped back to pass in the third quarter. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 19 Oct. 2025 Vargas played forward when attacking, dropped back when defending. Colin Cerniglia, Charlotte Observer, 18 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for drop back

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of drop back was in 1927

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Drop back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drop%20back. Accessed 24 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on drop back

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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