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

In District 5-4A Division I, Eastern Hills is the front-runner and expected to compete for a district title among squads like Southwest, Kennedale and more. — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Sep. 2026

This is the skill set that makes Thompson the clear front-runner to begin the season as the Heat’s starting shooting guard. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 22 Sep. 2026

Her campaigning could serve to solidify or undermine her status as a potential Democratic front-runner. — ABC News, 21 Sep. 2026

So far, there has been no consensus, though Costa Rica's former Vice President Rebeca Grynspan and Guyana's former Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett are among the front-runners. — Michele Kelemen, NPR, 21 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for front-runner

• forerunner
• brunner
• gunnar
• gunner
• runner
• tonner