quarterback

1 of 2

noun

quar·​ter·​back ˈkwȯ(r)-tər-ˌbak 

1

: an offensive back in football who usually lines up behind the center, calls the signals, and directs the offensive play of the team

2

: one who directs and leads

quarterback

2 of 2

verb

quarterbacked; quarterbacking; quarterbacks

transitive verb

1

: to direct the offensive play of

quarterback a football team

2

: to give executive direction to : boss

… quarterbacked the original buying syndicate.

—Time

intransitive verb

: to play quarterback

Synonyms of quarterback

Verb

• supervise
• handle
• oversee
• command
• manage
• boss
• watch over

Examples of quarterback in a Sentence

Verb

He quarterbacked his high school team.

She quarterbacked the company's latest ad campaign.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

This is because new signal-caller Malik Willis — and his backup, Quinn Ewers — are right-handed throwers, as opposed to former quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, a lefty. — David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 17 July 2026

After all, the Jayhawks’ offensive line group has multiple newcomers and there will be growing pains with a young quarterback at the helm. — Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 17 July 2026

Verb

The Life of a Showgirl singer has been photographed at WAG Christmas parties and frequently spends time with Brittany Mahomes, the wife of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. — Ashleigh Carter, InStyle, 17 July 2026

In the six years since Joe Burrow quarterbacked one of this century’s best teams to a national title, LSU is 44-29. — Matt Baker, New York Times, 17 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1879, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1892, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Phrases Containing quarterback

• Monday-morning quarterback
• quarterback sneak

Rhymes for quarterback

• almanac
• camelback
• cardiac
• carryback
• cluniac
• diamondback
• lumberjack
• maniac
• paperback
• piggyback
• saddleback
• stickleback

Kids Definition

quarterback

noun

quar·​ter·​back

ˈkwȯ(r)t-ər-ˌbak

: an offensive football back who calls the signals and directs the offensive play of the team

quarterback verb