Synonyms of vanguards

vanguards

noun

plural of vanguard

1

as in pioneers

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

• pioneers
• undergrounds
• vans
• avant-gardes
• cutting edges
• forerunners
• trailblazers
• precursors
• avant-gardists

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• establishments
• old guards

2

as in forefronts

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

• forefronts
• front lines
• vans
• leading edges
• cutting edges
• spearheads

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of vanguards

The great technological leaps in American history have often featured influential industrialists who step forward as vanguards, leading the way to a better tomorrow while emerging as major players in extreme endeavors. — Jeff Spry, Space.com, 3 Aug. 2026

The once-insurgent vanguards who cast their first votes for Barack Obama have relinquished their cool factor to Gen Z, who will one day undergo the same process themselves as time continues its relentless march forward. — Alison Herman, Variety, 18 Feb. 2026

Pants-optional dressing was arguably the biggest fashion trend of 2025, with celebrity style vanguards like Heidi Klum, Gisele Bündchen, and Sydney Sweeney opting to leave their pants at home in favor of cheeky outfits—and Eva Longoria is getting on the pantsless bandwagon. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 29 Dec. 2025

That may have been a heavy expectation, but she’s clearly evolved into one of its vanguards. — Josh Crutchmer, Rolling Stone, 21 Dec. 2025

The San Francisco 49ers, vanguards of the outside zone run game, cannot run the ball. — Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 15 Oct. 2025