lineman
UK: ˈlaɪnmən | US: ˈlaɪnmən
n. a person who installs or repairs electrical or telephone lines
n. (American football) a player positioned on the line of scrimmage
n. (historical) a person who worked on railway tracks
The word "lineman" combines "line," referring to wires or cables (originally from Latin linea, meaning "string, thread"), and "man," denoting a person. It emerged in the 19th century with the expansion of telegraph and railway networks, describing workers handling physical lines. Later, it extended to electrical/telephone infrastructure and sports (e.g., football players on the "line of scrimmage"). The term reflects industrialization's impact on language, linking labor roles to technical systems.
The lineman climbed the pole to repair the downed power line.
In football, the offensive lineman protects the quarterback.
Railway linemen were essential for maintaining early train tracks.
After the storm, linemen worked tirelessly to restore electricity.
The telephone lineman tested the connection before leaving.