running back

noun

: a football back (such as a halfback or fullback) who carries the ball on running plays

Examples of running back 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.
When asked about the optics of running back a team that won 37 games and missed the playoffs entirely, Dunleavy offered pure spin. — Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 12 Aug. 2026 Backup quarterbacks Justin Fields and Garrett Nussmeier figure to get the bulk of the snaps, at least early, and the performances among newcomers at running back and the defensive interior will be among the biggest curiosities. — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 12 Aug. 2026 Coach Matt LaFleur’s offense is predicated on a strong running game, which is in jeopardy with the star running back under investigation because of allegations of domestic violence. — Jacob Robinson, New York Times, 11 Aug. 2026 Now that payments are aboveboard and Congress is getting involved, the former running back agrees with those who have suggested college football players have a union to negotiate on their behalf. — Ken Makin, Christian Science Monitor, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for running back

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of running back was in 1891

Rhymes for running back

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Browse Nearby Words

running account
running back
running backstay
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Running back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/running%20back. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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