English Reference

Word

fronted

Phoneticsfront·ed

US/ˈfɹəntɪd/

UK/fɹˈʌntɪd/

Definition

v. to lead or be the most visible person in a group, such as a band or an organization. It can also mean providing the money for something to happen.

v. to serve as the leader or public face of an organization or musical group; alternatively, to provide the financial capital for a venture. Often used in the passive voice when discussing funding.

Examples

“She fronted a popular rock band in the nineties.”

“The project was fronted by a well-known environmental activist to ensure it gained public trust and media attention.”

“Although the startup was fronted by a charismatic young entrepreneur, the actual technical development was managed by a team of veteran engineers working behind the scenes.”

Examples

simple

“She fronted a popular rock band in the nineties.”

contextual

“The project was fronted by a well-known environmental activist to ensure it gained public trust and media attention.”

complex

“Although the startup was fronted by a charismatic young entrepreneur, the actual technical development was managed by a team of veteran engineers working behind the scenes.”

Usage

Transitive verb; requires a direct object representing the group, project, or funds.

Real-World Examples

“The chief refereeing officer for English football made his remarks on Tuesday, when he also fronted up over the error that allowed Manchester City to win Sunday’s Manchester derby.”
The Guardian · 15 Sept 2026

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/fronted

English Reference