tackle

Meanings

Noun

• A device for grasping an object and an attached means of moving it, as a rope and hook.
• A block and tackle.
• Clothing.
• Equipment (rod, reel, line, lure, etc.) used when angling.
• Equipment, gear, gadgetry.
• A play where a player attempts to take control over the ball from an opponent, as in rugby or football.
• A play where a defender brings the ball carrier to the ground.
• Any instance in which one person intercepts another and forces them to the ground.
• An offensive line position between a guard and an end: offensive tackle; a person playing that position.
• A defensive position between two defensive ends: defensive tackle; a person playing that position.
• A man's genitalia.

Verb

• To force a person to the ground with the weight of one's own body, usually by jumping on top or slamming one's weight into them.
• To face or deal with, attempting to overcome or fight down.
• To attempt to take away a ball.
• To bring a ball carrier to the ground.
• To "hit on" or pursue a person that one is interested in.

Origin

• From Middle English takel ("gear, apparatus"), from Middle Dutch or Middle Low German takel ("ship's rigging"), perhaps related to Middle Dutch taken ("to grasp, seize"). Akin to Danish takkel ("tackle"), Swedish tackel ("tackle"). More at take.