front-runner
noun
front-run·ner
ˈfrənt-ˌrə-nər 
1
: a contestant who runs best when in the lead
2
: a leading contestant in or as if in a rivalry or competition
a political front-runner
Examples of front-runner in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
This is a year where there are several front-runners but also comers — and many titles with crossover potential.
—
Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 12 Dec. 2025
Losing its front-runner status has obscured the fact that Sentimental Value is nevertheless performing quite well.
—Nate Jones, Vulture, 12 Dec. 2025
Komplizen’s co-pro Sentimental Value is a front-runner at the awards, with five nominations, including for best European film.
—Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 10 Dec. 2025
Stefanik has the backing of more than 70 percent of GOP county chairs in the state, and her campaign is emphasizing her front-runner status in fundraising and polling.
—Jason Lemon, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for front-runner
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Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 12 Dec. 2025
Losing its front-runner status has obscured the fact that Sentimental Value is nevertheless performing quite well.
—Nate Jones, Vulture, 12 Dec. 2025
Komplizen’s co-pro Sentimental Value is a front-runner at the awards, with five nominations, including for best European film.
—Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 10 Dec. 2025
Stefanik has the backing of more than 70 percent of GOP county chairs in the state, and her campaign is emphasizing her front-runner status in fundraising and polling.
—Jason Lemon, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for front-runner
Cite this Entry
“Front-runner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/front-runner. Accessed 15 Dec. 2025.
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