double-team

verb

dou·​ble-team ˈdə-bəl-ˌtēm How to pronounce double-team (audio)
double-teamed; double-teaming; double-teams

transitive verb

: to block or guard (an opponent) with two players at one time
double-team noun

Examples of double-team 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.
So perhaps more double-teams this time around? — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 3 Apr. 2026 The former blue-chip recruit was double-teamed constantly and still flashed rare burst, heavy hands and lateral quickness. — Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Apr. 2026 Garrett will slide into Verse’s role as the edge rusher who will see all the attention an opposing team can offer him, from double-teams to sliding protections to chips from tight ends and running backs. — Nate Atkins, New York Times, 3 June 2026 Wembanyama was originally issued an offensive foul after hitting Reid in the face with his elbow while being double-teamed in the corner after securing a rebound. — Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 11 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for double-team

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of double-team was in 1860

Rhymes for double-team

See All Rhymes for double-team

Browse Nearby Words

double-talk
double-team
Double Ten
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Double-team.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/double-team. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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