Tackler Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tackler

[ˈtæk.lər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

sports context

A tackler is a player in certain sports, such as football or rugby, who is responsible for stopping or bringing down an opponent in possession of the ball. This player typically engages physically with the opponent to prevent them from advancing the ball further down the field. Tacklers often use specific techniques to ensure their effectiveness while minimizing injury risks to themselves and the opposing player. This position requires a combination of strength, speed, and technique to succeed in stopping the offensive play.

Synonyms

defender, interceptor, stopper.

Examples of usage

  • The tackler stopped the runner in his tracks.
  • He was known as a fierce tackler on the field.
  • The team's success depended heavily on the skills of their tacklers.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Sports Psychology

  • Tacklers must think quickly and make split-second decisions to effectively stop their opponents without causing injury.
  • A strong tackler often has a deep understanding of body mechanics to anticipate and counter an opponent's moves.

Cultural Influence

  • 'Tackler' represents teamwork, as effective tackling requires communication and collaboration among teammates.
  • In media, tacklers are often glamorized as heroes in sports movies and stories, showcasing their bravery and physical skills.

Literature

  • Various sports novels and biographies highlight the importance of tackling as a skill that defines the character of athletes.
  • Children's books about sports often feature teams where brave tacklers save the day in matches.

Statistics

  • In professional football, a key stat for defenses is the number of successful tackles made by players each season.
  • Studies show that proper tackling technique can reduce injury risk, making training for tacklers crucial in sports programs.

Origin of 'tackler'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the word 'tackle' in sports, which means to physically stop an opponent.
  • The use of 'tackler' in sports began to gain popularity in American football during the mid-20th century.

The term 'tackler' originates from the verb 'tackle,' which can be traced back to Middle English 'tak(en)' meaning to take hold of something. The use of 'tackle' in a sports context dates back to the 19th century, particularly within games like football and rugby, where tackling became a fundamental skill. The suffix '-er' denotes an agent noun, indicating someone who performs the action of tackling. The evolution of the term reflects the increasing formalization and specialization of sports in modern society, where players develop specific roles and skills. Over time, the role of the tackler became crucial in sports strategy, leading to variations in techniques and training focused on improving tackling effectiveness while ensuring player safety.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,919, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.