tack·le (t k  l)n. 1. The equipment used in a particular activity, especially in fishing; gear. 2. a. often (t  kl) Nautical A system of ropes and blocks for raising and lowering weights of rigging and pulleys for applying tension.b. A rope and its pulley. 3. Sports a. The act of stopping an opposing player carrying the ball, especially by forcing the opponent to the ground, as in football or Rugby. b. The act of obstructing a player in order to cause loss of possession of the ball, as in soccer. 4. Football a. One of two offensive linemen positioned between the guard and the end on either side of the ball. b. One of two defensive linemen positioned to the inside of either end. c. Either of these positions. v. tack·led, tack·ling, tack·les v.tr. 1. To grab hold of and wrestle with (an opponent). 2. Sports a. To stop (an opponent carrying the ball), especially by forcing the opponent to the ground. b. To obstruct (a player with the ball) in order to cause loss of possession of the ball. 3. To engage or deal with: tackle a perplexing problem. 4. To harness (a horse). v.intr. Sports To tackle an opponent in possession of the ball. [Middle English takel, from Middle Dutch or Middle Low German; perhaps akin to Middle Dutch taken, to seize, grasp.] tack ler n. |
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