tailbacks

Definition of tailbacksnext
plural of tailback, British
as in jams
a crowded mass (as of cars) that impedes or blocks movement stuck in a five-mile tailback on the southbound carriageway

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of tailbacks Auburn loaded up at running back, with Washington (788 yards at Baylor in 2025) among three new tailbacks who ran for over 600 yards last season. Manny Navarro, New York Times, 6 Mar. 2026 The Broncos also will need more production from tailbacks Jaleel McLaughlin and RJ Harvey, who combined for 41 rushing yards across just 10 carries against Buffalo. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 23 Jan. 2026 The 49ers didn’t have a single running back break 300 yards last season, and while the line struggled to open holes, the tailbacks couldn’t hold on to the ball. Hunter Bailey, Charlotte Observer, 19 Jan. 2026 Miami’s offensive line paved the way as all three tailbacks scored a rushing touchdown. Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 7 Dec. 2025 But mostly, the Bills have allowed star tailbacks to run amok. Robert Marvi, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Nov. 2025 Your tailbacks and your offensive line are good enough to be your base. Troy Renck, Denver Post, 8 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tailbacks
Noun
  • The show ebbed and flowed with precision, with the uptempo jams countered by Mars’ considerable arsenal of ballads.
    Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 11 Apr. 2026
  • Eighth-grade pitcher Molly Buffington worked out of several jams, including when King Philip had the game-winning run on base in the seventh and eighth.
    Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Visiting is free, and public transit is recommended due to the traffic snarls along the National Mall (especially on the weekend).
    Adele Chapin, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Apr. 2026
  • As Ross, Martin’s friend and confidante, Kevin Singer has the insinuating righteousness of a slinky cat, his line readings all mews and snarls.
    Steven Winn, San Francisco Chronicle, 3 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Antwerp and Rotterdam have had to contend with more prevalent congestion woes in recent years amid increasing container volumes, ongoing labor unrest, as well as infrastructure strain responsible for inland transportation delays and bottlenecks.
    Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2026
  • Meanwhile, crude prices remain elevated amid lingering supply concerns tied to Middle East supply bottlenecks.
    Yun Li, CNBC, 10 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Tailbacks.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tailbacks. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.

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