standard-bearer

noun

stan·​dard-bear·​er ˈstan-dərd-ˌber-ər 

1

: one who bears a standard or banner

2

: one that leads an organization, movement, or party

a standard-bearer for political reform

Examples of standard-bearer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For most of the past 30-plus years, guitarist Joe Bonamassa has been a standard-bearer in the blues world. — Daniel Kohn, Rolling Stone, 15 Oct. 2026

Before there was Georgia Oakley’s earthy, enthralling new spin on Jane Austen’s debut novel, there was Ang Lee’s 1995 standard-bearer of an adaptation. — Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 14 Oct. 2026

Apple Mac mini Desktop Deal Apple's Mac mini is the standard-bearer for the compact desktop format, and the latest release of this pocket-sized PC is an incredible performer. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 9 Oct. 2026

The rematch gave the champion the opportunity to prove himself in a complete fight against the division’s former standard-bearer. — ABC News, 20 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for standard-bearer

• bearer
• carer
• error
• fairer
• ferrer
• rarer
• sharer
• terror
• wearer
• cupbearer
• declarer
• preparer

Kids Definition

standard-bearer

noun

stan·​dard-bear·​er

ˈstan-dərd-ˌbar-ər, 

-ˌber-

1

: one who bears a standard or banner

2

: the leader of an organization or movement