flanker

noun

flank·​er ˈflaŋ-kər How to pronounce flanker (audio)
: a football player stationed wide of the formation slightly behind the line of scrimmage as a pass receiver

called also flanker back

Examples of flanker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Legion openside flanker Bradley Wilken (27 tackles) and right wing Ryan James (two tries) were named to the MLR’s First XV for their performances in the win over Seattle. Ivan Carter, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Feb. 2025 This year, the addition of Jacob Trouba via trade seemed to invigorate the group some – even after another veteran defenseman left after Cam Fowler was dealt to St. Louis – as did the contract extension of experienced flanker Frank Vatrano. Andrew Knoll, Orange County Register, 16 Feb. 2025 He was challenged on a daily basis by coach Jon Gruden, who moved him from flanker to split end and was constantly in Rice’s ear, reminding him of his status among the all-time greats while at the time pushing for more. Jerry McDonald, The Mercury News, 12 Feb. 2025 The Experience Both Noir and Lumière include notes of jasmine sambac at the heart and citrus at the top, but Cé Lumière is definitely not a flanker for the first drop. Jihan Forbes, Allure, 10 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for flanker

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of flanker was in 1940

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Cite this Entry

“Flanker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flanker. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

flanker

noun
flank·​er ˈflaŋ-kər How to pronounce flanker (audio)
1
: one that flanks
2
: a football player stationed wide of the formation especially as a pass receiver
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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