tailback
UK: ˈteɪlbæk | US: ˈteɪlˌbæk
n. 1. A line of vehicles or traffic extending backward from a point of congestion.
n. 2. (American football) A player positioned behind the quarterback, primarily responsible for running with the ball.
The word "tailback" combines "tail," referring to the rear or end of something (from Old English "tægl"), and "back," denoting a position behind or at the rear (from Old English "bæc"). In traffic contexts, it describes vehicles lined up like a tail extending backward. In football, it refers to a player positioned at the back of the offensive formation. The term emerged in the early 20th century, reflecting its literal spatial logic in both domains.
A five-mile tailback formed on the highway after the accident.
The tailback sprinted past the defense to score a touchdown.
Drivers were stuck in a tailback for over an hour.
The team’s star tailback rushed for 150 yards in the game.
Roadworks caused a tailback stretching to the next exit.