'cornerback' originates from the combination of 'corner' and 'back', where 'corner' refers to the position on the field and 'back' refers to the defensive role.

'cornerback' evolved from the term 'corner' in football, indicating a position near the sideline, combined with 'back', a term for defensive players.

Initially, it referred to a player positioned at the corner of the field, and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.