libero

Meanings

Plural: liberos

Noun

A central defender to whom no forward is assigned for marking, forming the last line of defence and often initiating the offensive play.
A designated back-row player intended to be used as a ball-control specialist.

Origin / Etymology

From Italian libero (literally “free one”). So called because he has no direct opponent to mark and is therefore free to join in the offensive. The volleyball use is younger.

Synonyms

sweeper

Scrabble Score: 8

libero is not valid in Scrabble (US) TWL Dictionary
libero is not valid in Scrabble (MW) Merriam-Webster Dictionary
libero is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 10

libero is a valid Words With Friends word