vanguard
VAN-gahrd
/ˈvænɡɑːrd/
The foremost part of an advancing army or naval force; also, the leaders of any intellectual or political movement.
Carries a strong connotation of leadership, innovation, and being the first to face danger or introduce new ideas.
The story behind the word. Vanguard is a corruption of the Old French 'avant-garde', where 'avant' means 'before' or 'forward' and 'garde' means 'guard'. It was the unit that marched at the very front of the army to scout and clear the way.
Word relationships
- spearhead: Spearhead is often used as a verb and implies the driving force of an attack, while vanguard is a noun referring to the physical leading unit or group.
- forefront: Forefront is a general term for the most prominent position, whereas vanguard has specific military and historical roots.
- rearguard: The rearguard is the defensive force at the very back of an army, protecting its retreat.
- followers: Followers are those who come behind, the opposite of the leading vanguard.
Commonly confused with
- avant-garde: Avant-garde is used almost exclusively in the arts to describe experimental or radical work, while vanguard is used for military, political, or general leadership.
Word family
- vanguardist (noun): A person who promotes vanguard ideas or political strategies.
Collocations
- vanguard of the movement
- armored vanguard
- at the vanguard
Example sentences
- "The vanguard of the army reached the river by nightfall, securing the bridge before the main infantry arrived." A description of an advancing army.
Memory hook
Think of a 'van' driving in 'guard' position at the very front of a convoy. The van guards the front of the army.
When not to use
Do not use to describe the main body or the rear guard of an army; the vanguard is strictly the leading edge.
Fun facts
- The famous investment company Vanguard Group was named after HMS Vanguard, the flagship of Admiral Horatio Nelson at the Battle of the Nile.
Explore more words
spearhead, avant-garde, advance, cutting-edge, pioneer, advancement
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