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

Alvarez has more recent outfield experience than Altuve, but would Espada dare remove an American League MVP front-runner in a close game? — Chandler Rome, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026

Blue Origin and Rocket Lab were viewed as the front-runners for the contract, and both pushed hard for it, touting their bona fides and expertise. — Mike Wall, Space.com, 2 Sep. 2026

Both endorsed Dan Koh, the front-runner in the crowded race to fill Moulton’s open House seat as the incumbent runs for the Senate. — Elizabeth Robinson, NBC news, 1 Sep. 2026

The crop of more traditional homegrown contenders is packed, even without an outstanding front-runner. — Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for front-runner

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