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

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

Usually the spearhead of Jordan’s attack, Al-Naimat suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in December which ruled him out of this tournament. — Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 17 June 2026

Verb

Debbie Dolgin, director of strategic philanthropy in the American Friends of Magen David Adom western region, said the project was spearheaded by the Goldhirsh-Yellin Foundation’s president, Elizabeth Goldhirsh-Yellin. — Caroline Zimmerman july 17, Kansas City Star, 18 July 2026

Of all his many achievements, spearheading West Ham’s return to familiar surroundings would further cement his legacy. — Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 18 July 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