quarterback

quarterback — noun

1. the player on an American football team who stands directly behind the center ju

1.nounB1
Definition

the player on an American football team who stands directly behind the center just before each offensive play begins and decides whether to throw the ball, carry it forward, or give it to a teammate, guiding the team's progress toward the opponent's goal

Example

Eli spotted the blitz and changed the play, then fired a pass between two defenders for a touchdown.

quarterback reads defense, adjusts play, and delivers a pass

The team's new quarterback studies defensive formations before every play.

collocation: studies defensive formations

Common collocations
  • starting quarterback
  • backup quarterback
  • franchise quarterback
  • quarterback sack
  • quarterback sneak
  • quarterback rating
Synonyms
  • signal caller

    informal synonym; emphasizes the QB's role in calling plays at the line of scrimmage

  • field general

    informal, metaphorical; highlights leadership and strategic control on the field

  • passer

    narrower term focusing only on the throwing aspect; not all QBs are primarily passers

Usage Note

This term is used almost exclusively in American football. Outside North America, the sport itself is often called 'American football' to avoid confusion with soccer.

quarterback — verb

Word family

  • quarterbacking
    nounC1

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

In American football, 'quarterback' is the standard term for the player who directs the offense. 'Signal caller' is a more informal synonym that emphasizes the QB's role in shouting codes and audibles at the line of scrimmage — it is rarely used outside sports journalism. 'Field general' is a colourful, metaphorical label that highlights leadership and strategic control rather than the physical act of throwing or running; it carries a tone of respect and is usually a compliment from commentators. 'Playmaker' is broader and applies to any player (not just the QB) who consistently creates scoring opportunities through skill or creativity. In everyday conversation, 'quarterback' remains the neutral and widely understood choice, while 'field general' and 'signal caller' are colour terms best reserved for informal sports talk.

signal callerfield generalplaymaker

Common collocations

Nouns

Phrases

  • play quarterback
  • as quarterback
  • line up at quarterback

Prepositions

Etymology

English

The term 'quarterback' comes from the early formation of American football in the late 1800s. Players were positioned relative to the line of scrimmage: the 'fullback' stood deepest, the 'halfbacks' stood halfway back, and the player positioned one-quarter of the way back became the 'quarterback'. Over time, this position evolved into the central leadership role on offense that it is today.