English Reference
adjective · noun

pioneering

adj. · n.
US /ˌpaɪəˈnɪɹɪŋ/ UK /paɪənˈiəɹɪŋ/ pi·o·neer·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.using new methods or doing something that has never been done before.

    adj.involving accomplishments or activities that are unprecedented; developing or using new methods or techniques.

    Simple

    The hospital is famous for its pioneering work in heart surgery.

    In context

    Her pioneering research into renewable energy sources laid the groundwork for the sustainable technologies we rely on today.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it describes.

    innovativegroundbreakingoriginal
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Academic

    n.the activity of being the first to do something or explore a new area.

    n.the activity or process of opening up new areas of thought, research, or physical territory.

    Simple

    The pioneering of new trade routes was dangerous but profitable.

    In context

    The rapid pioneering of digital communication in the late twentieth century fundamentally altered the global economic landscape.

    Usage

    Uncountable in this sense.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical

    n.a skill in scouting where you build things using wooden poles and rope.

    n.a scoutcraft skill involving the construction of structures such as bridges or towers using staves and knots.

    Simple

    The scouts practiced their pioneering by building a bridge across the stream.

    In context

    The troop demonstrated their proficiency in pioneering by erecting a functional observation tower using only timber and hemp rope.

    Usage

    Uncountable; specific to the context of scouting or outdoor survival training.

    scoutcraft

About 20 years ago, laboratory scientist Jon Eggert and his colleagues carried out pioneering experiments on diamond melting at high pressure.

ScienceDaily· 20 Aug 2026

Mary Anning, the pioneering palaeontologist and fossil dealer , was born in Lyme Regis and, among other finds, discovered the first complete skeleton of a plesiosaurus in 1823.

The Guardian· 16 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated