Lineman

ˈlaɪnmən

nounmedium📊CommonOccupation
2 meanings3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A skilled worker responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical power lines and related equipment.

ˈlaɪnmən

nounneutralmedium
Occupation

A worker who installs and maintains electrical power lines.

The lineman expertly replaced the damaged transformer.

💡 Simply: A lineman is like a superhero for electricity! They climb up poles and fix broken wires so your lights and TV can stay on. They're super important after a big storm.

👶 For kids: A lineman fixes the wires that bring electricity to your house!

More Examples

2

High winds kept the linemen busy all night, repairing downed power lines.

3

The linemen faced hazardous conditions during the blizzard.

How It's Used

Electrical Engineering

"The lineman climbed the utility pole to repair the damaged power line."

Emergency Services

"Linemen work in dangerous conditions to restore power after storms."

2

A player on a football team who is positioned at or near the line of scrimmage, typically involved in blocking or tackling.

ˈlaɪnmən

nounneutralBeginner
Sports

A player on a football team who lines up at or near the line of scrimmage.

The offensive lineman created a hole for the running back.

💡 Simply: In football, the linemen are the big, strong players who stand right at the start of the play. They block the other team so their quarterback can throw the ball or their running back can run.

👶 For kids: In football, linemen are the players who stand at the start line and help other players!

More Examples

2

The defensive lineman was a formidable opponent, consistently disrupting plays.

3

The coach praised the linemen for their effort and dedication.

How It's Used

Sports (Football)

"The offensive linemen are responsible for protecting the quarterback."

Sports (Football)

"The defensive lineman made a crucial tackle in the final quarter."

Tip:Think of them as the 'men on the line' battling for yards.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

From "line" (referring to power lines or a boundary) + "man". Developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the advent of electrical power distribution and football.

The term 'lineman' emerged with the rapid expansion of electrical grids and telegraph systems in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its use in football became established later as the sport gained popularity.

Memory tip

Think of them as the 'men of the line,' ensuring power flows smoothly.

Word Origin

LanguageOld English
Original meaning

"A string, cable or wire in reference to power or the boundary of a field."

electrical linemanpower linemanoffensive linemandefensive linemanexperienced lineman

Common misspellings

line manline-man

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written