Definition

A player in football who is positioned farthest back from the line where the play starts, or a line of cars that forms when traffic slows down or stops.

Example

During the game, the tailback made an impressive run down the field.

Conversation

Did you see that tailback during the game last night?

Yeah, he was amazing! He really knew how to dodge the defense.

I know! It reminded me of how tough it is to be a tailback in football.

Definitely! They have to be quick on their feet and make smart decisions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tailback → It is formed from "tail" (from Old French *tail*, meaning the rear part) and "back" (from Old English *bæc*, meaning the rear or back side). The word "tailback" refers to a line of vehicles that extends back from a point of congestion, resembling a tail extending from the back of something.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'tail' as the 'rear part' and 'back' as the 'rear side' — together, they describe a line of vehicles extending back like a tail.

Visually Confused Words