lineman

[lahyn-muhn]

noun

plural

linemen 

1. Also a person who installs or repairs telephone, telegraph, or other wires.

2. Football.,  one of the players in the line, as a center, guard, tackle, or end.

3. Surveying.,  a person who marks the positions of a survey mark with a range pole or the like.

lineman

/ ˈlaɪnmən /

noun

1. another name for platelayer

2. a person who does the chaining, taping, or marking of points for a surveyor

3. (formerly) the member of a beach life-saving team who controlled the line used to help drowning swimmers and surfers

4. American football a member of the row of players who start each down positioned on either side of the line of scrimmage

5. another word for linesman

Gender Note

See -man.

Other Word Forms

• underlineman noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of lineman¹

First recorded in 1855–60; line ¹ + -man

Example Sentences

The Rams signed the lineman, who just had his career-best season with the Chargers for one reason and one reason only.

From Los Angeles Times

Fullback/defensive lineman Scott Matlock, listed at 296 pounds, adds unique versatility as a backfield blocker or extra lineman in jumbo sets.

From Los Angeles Times

USC offensive lineman Micah Banuelos has finally pushed through injury issues to become a factor in the race to build a stronger Trojans offensive line.

From Los Angeles Times

“Baseball is good hands-eye coordination and because I’m a defensive linemen I use my hands a lot. Seeing a baseball, the reaction time is like an offensive lineman using their hands.”

From Los Angeles Times

With the Rams trailing, 22-17, in the fourth quarter, Chargers lineman TeRah Edwards intercepted a pass and returned it 27 yards.

From Los Angeles Times