1
: one who sets up or repairs electric wire communication or power lines

called also linesman

2
: a player in the forward line of a team
specifically : a football player in the line

Examples of lineman in a Sentence

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.
According to the lineman, entering the open market following Achilles surgery was initially tough on him mentally. Charlotte Observer, 7 July 2026 Makeo Smith, a 6-4, 265-pound sophomore lineman, figures to receive lots of attention after contributing as a freshman. Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026 Dickey, who had been recruited to play lineman positions at the university, started struggling and passed out, according to the attorney general's office. ABC News, 6 July 2026 Trey Smith, an offensive lineman for the Chiefs, brought his older sister, Ashley Smith, as his plus one for the event, ultimately resulting in an evening his sister wouldn't soon forget. Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for lineman

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lineman was in 1876

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lineman.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lineman. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

1
: one who sets up or repairs power or telephone lines
2
: a football player whose position is on the line of scrimmage
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