Definitions

1. noun

In American football, the player who returns a kickoff or punt, or a defensive player who recovers a fumble or blocked kick, and then tries to return the ball.

“The runback on the punt was impressive as he dodged several defenders and returned the ball for a touchdown.”

2. verb

To return a kickoff or punt, or to recover a fumble or blocked kick and then try to return the ball.

“The quarterback fumbled the snap, and the opposing team ran it back for a score.”