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

David Jolly, the front-runner in the Democratic primary, has raised about $9 million between his campaign account and political committee, Florida 2026. — Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 24 July 2026

Who becomes a front-runner may come down to who campaigns best during phase two. — Emily Longeretta, Variety, 24 July 2026

Feely initially ran for Congress for Arizona's 5th District, but switched to District 1 after Trump endorsed former Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb, who became the clear front-runner. — Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 22 July 2026

Republicans in the district, which consists of the Phoenix metro area, picked the more moderate candidate out of the two front-runners. — Saige Miller, NPR, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for front-runner

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