trailblazer

noun

trail·​blaz·​er ˈtrāl-ˌblā-zər 

1

: pioneer sense 2

a trailblazer in astrophysics

2

: one that blazes a trail to guide others : pathfinder

Word Icons

Examples of trailblazer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Smith, 61, paid tribute to Collins, the first openly gay NBA player, who died on Tuesday at age 47, calling him a trailblazer for other players to follow. —Paloma Chavez, PEOPLE, 14 May 2026

Boys ice hockey was the trailblazer for the concept, adopting the format in 1991. —Jack Murray, Boston Herald, 13 May 2026

As part of the pregame ceremonies, the team will unveil a permanent display to honor former players and LGBTQ trailblazers Billy Bean and Glenn Burke. —Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 12 May 2026

Hosted by the nonprofit Gold House, the annual Gold Gala honors the contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander trailblazers in entertainment, business, fashion and more. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 11 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for trailblazer

• appraiser
• fundraiser
• blazer
• gazer
• glazer
• kayser
• laser
• lazar
• maser
• mazer
• phasor
• raiser

Kids Definition

trailblazer

noun

trail·​blaz·​er ˈtrā(ə)l-ˌblā-zər 

: someone who prepares the way for others who follow: as

a

: pathfinder

b

: pioneer entry 1 sense 1