Vanguard
/ˈvæn.ɡɑːrd/noun
The forefront of an action or movement, especially in a military context.
Did you know?The concept of the vanguard was often associated with the most daring and fearless soldiers, tasked with leading the charge into battle, embodying both bravery and sacrifice.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʰer-
“to grasp or enclose, a root associated with protection and guarding.”
Old French
Old French
avant-garde
“literally 'fore-guard', used in military contexts to denote the front line.”
Middle English
Middle English
vanguard
“the front division of an army; those who lead the way.”
16th Century
English
vanguard
“the leading part of an army; figuratively, the forefront of any movement or idea.”