nickelback

See also: Nickelback and nickel back

English

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈnɪkəlbæk/
• Rhymes: -ɪkəlbæk

Etymology 1

Blend of nickel +‎ cornerback. Modelled on quarterback: both the quarter (“25 cents”) and the nickel (“5 cents”) are American coins, though quarterback was not named for the coin. Coined due to the nickelback's role as the fifth defensive back on the field, thus the connection to the 5-cent nickel.

Alternative forms

• nickel back

Noun

nickelback (plural nickelbacks)

1. (American football) A fifth defensive back (in addition to two cornerbacks and two safeties) who is deployed for additional pass coverage.

Related terms

• dimeback
• quarterback

 

Etymology 2

From nickel +‎ back.

Noun

nickelback (plural nickelbacks)

1. Alternative form of Nickelback