quarterback
UK: ˈkwɔːtəbæk | US: ˈkwɔːrtərbæk
n. 1. (American football) the player who directs the team's offensive plays and typically throws passes.
n. 2. (figuratively) a leader or primary strategist in any field.
vt. 3. to lead or direct (a team, project, etc.) as a quarterback.
quarterback = quarter<fourth part> + back<rear position>
- quarter: From Latin quartarius (fourth part), via Old French quartier. In football, originally referred to one of four players in the backfield.
- back: From Old English bæc (rear), referring to the player's position behind the line of scrimmage.
Etymology Origin:
The term emerged in 19th-century American football, combining "quarter" (from the sport's early four-player backfield system) and "back" (position). Over time, it narrowed to describe the primary offensive leader, reflecting strategic evolution in the game.
The quarterback threw a perfect spiral for a touchdown.
She quarterbacked the marketing campaign with great success.
As the project's quarterback, he coordinated all team efforts.
The rookie quarterback showed impressive composure under pressure.
They need a strong quarterback to revitalize the company's strategy.