spearhead

1 of 2

noun

spear·​head ˈspir-ˌhed 

1

: the sharp-pointed head of a spear

2

: a leading element, force, or influence in an undertaking or development

spearhead

2 of 2

verb

spearheaded; spearheading; spearheads

transitive verb

: to serve as leader or leading element of

Synonyms of spearhead

Verb

• lead
• command

Examples of spearhead in a Sentence

Noun

Her book was the spearhead of the clean water movement.

Verb

She spearheaded the campaign for better schools.

The movement was spearheaded by the teachers' union.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The 19-year-old Greek prospect’s contribution as the attacking spearhead in Sunday’s 5-0 win at Coventry City represents a breakthrough after a stop-start first year at the club. — Andy Naylor, New York Times, 16 Sep. 2026

On paper, England holds the clear advantage in talent, led by Premier League standouts, whereas Mexico’s spearhead is Julián Quiñones, the top scorer in the Saudi League. — Carlos Rodriguez, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026

Verb

Chatfield also managed Brown’s gubernatorial campaign in Northern California and later became the inaugural director of Brown’s California Conservation Corps, an organization that spearheaded environmental projects. — Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026

But with a plan spearheaded by Vrabel’s staff, Moses played in all 21 Patriots games (including the playoffs and Super Bowl) last season. — Chad Graff, New York Times, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1937, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for spearhead

• abed
• ahead
• beachhead
• bedspread
• bedstead
• behead
• blackhead
• blockhead
• bloodshed
• bowhead
• breastfed
• bridgehead

Kids Definition

spearhead

1 of 2 noun

spear·​head -ˌhed 

1

: the head or point of a spear

2

: a person, thing, or group that is the leading force (as in a development or attack)

spearhead

2 of 2 verb

: to serve as leader of

spearhead a campaign for better schools