tackle
tackle Lexical Profile
tackle Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A physical challenge or maneuver intended to dispossess an opponent of the ball or bring them to the ground (especially in sports).
"The referee awarded a penalty kick after a late tackle inside the penalty area."
The equipment or gear required for a particular task or sport, especially fishing.
"He packed his rods, bait, and tackle before heading out to the lake for the weekend."
A mechanism comprising ropes and pulley blocks used for lifting, lowering, or pulling heavy loads.
"The crew used a block and tackle to hoist the heavy cargo onto the ship's deck."
• verb
To make a determined effort to deal with a problem or difficult task.
"The new administration promised to tackle the housing crisis immediately."
To physically intercept or bring down a player who is in possession of the ball.
"The defender managed to tackle the striker just outside the penalty box."
To initiate a conversation with someone about an awkward, difficult, or sensitive issue.
"I decided to tackle my boss about getting a raise before the end of the fiscal year."
Word Nuance & Usage
When referring to gear (especially for fishing), 'tackle' acts as an uncountable noun. When referring to a sports maneuver, it is countable.
• Rhymes for tackle
Word Origin & Etymology
Middle English: from Middle Low German 'takel', meaning 'equipment of a ship'. The sports sense of physically stopping an opponent emerged in the late 19th century.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.