Definition
A playground chasing game in which two teams form parallel lines holding hands tightly; players from one team take turns running and attempting to break through the opposing team's linked chain, with successful breaches moving a defender to the other team. The game is a test of speed, strength, and strategically weak links.
Example Usage
During recess, we'd gather the whole class for a game of red rover, though teachers eventually discouraged it due to injuries.
Origin
A folk game with English roots dating back at least to the 19th century; the exact origin of its name is unclear but may derive from a military term or nonsense rhyme.
Fun Fact
Red rover has largely disappeared from modern playgrounds due to injury concerns, including broken arms and shoulder dislocations from aggressive runs.
Related Terms
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See “red rover” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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