defensive back

[/dɪˈfɛnsɪv bæk/]
nounpl: defensive backs
defesa (jogador de defesa/zagueiro)
1. A player in American football positioned in the backfield whose primary responsibility is to defend against forward passes and prevent the opposing team from gaining yards through the air
The defensive back covered the receiver tightly to prevent a touchdown.
O defesa cobriu o recebedor com segurança para evitar um touchdown.
2. A defensive player whose main function is to cover wide receivers and running backs on passing plays
The team recruited a talented defensive back in the draft.
O time recrutou um defesa talentoso no draft.
This is a fundamental position in American football. In Brazil and Portugal, where futebol americano is less popular, the term is less commonly used but understood by sports enthusiasts. The position is crucial in professional NFL teams and is a key focus in college football recruiting.
NYC Slang
DB (defensive back)
Synonyms / Sinônimos
cornerbacksafetysecondary defenderpass defender
Antonyms / Antônimos
offensive backreceiverwide receiver

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
defesa
Most common term used in football broadcasts and sports journalism
General Brazilian Portuguese
zagueiro
Occasionally used, though more traditionally associated with soccer
Portugal
defesa
Similar usage to Brazilian Portuguese
USA Sports Context
DB (abbreviation)
Common shorthand used in American football statistics and commentary

Related Words

cornerbacksafetysecondarycoveragepass defenseinterceptionbump and run

Related Idioms & Phrases

play tight coverage
lock down a receiver
read the quarterback
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