Backline: meaning, definitions and examples

In sports, particularly in rugby or soccer, backline refers to the defensive players or the players positioned further back on the field.

• The backline did a great job defending against the opposing team.
• Our coach focused on strengthening the backline during practice.

Refers to the tools or items needed for a particular purpose or activity, often used in a broader and more general sense compared to 'gear'.

• The laboratory was filled with new equipment for the research project.
• We need to check the climbing equipment before our trip.

Often used in casual or outdoor settings to talk about the items or tools needed for a specific activity, usually emphasizing personal equipment more than heavy or large-scale items.

• Make sure you have all your hiking gear before we leave.
• The camping gear is stored in the garage.

Typically refers to musical tools like guitars, pianos, violins, etc., or tools used for scientific or technical purposes.

• The band members tuned their instruments before the performance.
• He used various instruments to conduct the experiment.

Used mainly in sports, especially in soccer, rugby, and hockey, to refer to the players who play in the defensive positions.

• The team's backline was solid, preventing any goals from the opposition
• The coach emphasized the importance of the backline in maintaining a strong defense

General term used in sports and military contexts to describe efforts to protect from attack or prevent an opponent from scoring or succeeding.

• Our defense strategy stopped the opposing team in their tracks
• The military planned a strong defense to safeguard the city

Commonly used in sports to refer to players whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring.

• The defenders worked hard to keep the attackers at bay
• Her skill as a defender helped the team secure a victory

Primarily used in military contexts to describe troops positioned at the back of a formation to protect against attacks from the rear. Can also be used metaphorically in other contexts but is less common.

• The rear guard was tasked with ensuring the troops' safe withdrawal
• In the business world, he acted as the company's rear guard, defending it from hostile takeovers