pioneer
py-uh-NEER
/ˌpaɪəˈnɪər/
A person who is among the first to explore or settle a new country or area; to develop or be the first to use a new method.
Suggests bravery and the risk of being the first to enter unknown territory.
The story behind the word. It comes from the Old French word for a foot soldier. These soldiers were the ones who went ahead of the main army to dig trenches and clear the way, which is why we use it for people who 'clear the way' in science or art.
Word relationships
- trailblazer: Trailblazer is more metaphorical; pioneer can be both metaphorical and literal (like a settler).
- follower: One who comes after the path has been cleared.
Commonly confused with
- founder: A founder starts an organization; a pioneer starts a movement or method.
Word family
- pioneering (adjective): Involving new ideas or methods.
Collocations
- pioneer a technique
- early pioneer
- pioneer spirit
Idioms & expressions
- blaze a trail
- lead the way
Example sentences
- "Marie Curie was a pioneer in the study of radioactivity." Science
- "The company helped pioneer the use of social media for customer service." Business
Memory hook
A Pioneer is like a 'Pie-on-Ear'—someone so early they're still eating breakfast while others are sleeping. First on the scene.
When not to use
Don't use for someone who simply follows a trend; they must be the leader.
Fun facts
- The word is related to 'pawn' in chess, which also comes from the word for a foot soldier.
Related words
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