Synonyms of vanguard

vanguard

noun

ˈvan-ˌgärd 

1

as in pioneer

the innovators of new concepts, styles, and techniques especially in the arts

a style of jazz that the vanguard quickly recognized as new and exciting

Synonyms & Similar Words

• pioneer
• underground
• avant-garde
• van
• cutting edge
• forerunner
• precursor
• avant-gardist
• trailblazer

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• establishment
• old guard

2

as in forefront

the leading or most important part of a movement

talk radio is often regarded as being in the vanguard of the conservative movement

Synonyms & Similar Words

• forefront
• leading edge
• front line
• van
• cutting edge
• spearhead

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of vanguard

Now entering its third year, Athlos is among a new vanguard of professional track and field events aimed at modernizing the sport for the streaming era and growing its audience in non-Olympic years. — Scott Soshnick, Sportico.com, 20 May 2026

Hekt’s debut album heralds a union between the left-field pop scene of his native Copenhagen and the influential Glasgow label Numbers, whose formidable run of 2010s releases—including several landmark SOPHIE singles—has left a neon imprint on the new Danish vanguard. — Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 1 May 2026

Antonelli, though, has been emerging as this vanguard’s shining star. — Nick Remsen, Vogue, 1 May 2026

Teyana Taylor is taking her fashion vanguard reputation to new heights in the desert. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 12 Apr. 2026

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