Synonyms of vanguard

vanguard

noun

ˈvan-ˌgärd 

1

as in pioneer

the innovators of new concepts, styles, and techniques especially in the arts

a style of jazz that the vanguard quickly recognized as new and exciting

Synonyms & Similar Words

• pioneer
• underground
• avant-garde
• van
• cutting edge
• forerunner
• precursor
• avant-gardist
• trailblazer

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• establishment
• old guard

2

as in forefront

the leading or most important part of a movement

talk radio is often regarded as being in the vanguard of the conservative movement

Synonyms & Similar Words

• forefront
• leading edge
• front line
• van
• cutting edge
• spearhead

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of vanguard

The theater was squarely in the exhibition vanguard then, designed and equipped as a boutique-size 750-seat alternative to the massive Balaban & Katz auditoriums of the day. — Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 22 Aug. 2026

Galliano represents the last of a vanguard of designers who developed cults of personalities. — Zoe Sottile, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026

The great technological leaps in American history have often featured influential industrialists who step forward as vanguards, leading the way to a better tomorrow while emerging as major players in extreme endeavors. — Jeff Spry, Space.com, 3 Aug. 2026

Columbia waded into the rock vanguard after Davis attended the Monterey International Pop Festival in June 1967 at the behest of its organizer Lou Adler, whose Ode Records was distributed by CBS. — Chris Morris, Variety, 22 June 2026

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