English Reference
noun

vanguard

n.
US /ˈvænˌɡɑɹd/ UK /vˈæŋɡɑːd/ van·guard UK spelling vanguards

  1. 01 C1 Advanced General-service

    the people who are at the front of a new movement or who develop new ideas before anyone else.

    the group of people leading the way in new developments or ideas, particularly in art, science, or politics.

    Simple

    The company is in the vanguard of green technology, developing engines that produce zero waste.

    In context

    Small independent galleries often act as the vanguard of the art world, showcasing experimental works long before they reach major museums.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'in the vanguard of'.

  2. 02 C2 Proficiency TechnicalFormal Science

    the part of an army or a fleet of ships that is at the very front when moving toward an enemy.

    the leading units or foremost division of an advancing military force or fleet.

    Simple

    The vanguard of the army reached the river at dawn, hours before the main force arrived.

    In context

    Reconnaissance units formed the vanguard, tasked with identifying enemy positions before the heavy artillery moved into range.

    Usage

    Usually takes a singular verb.

    advance guardfront line
    rearguard

They were also at the vanguard of a new kind of warfare.

Smithsonian Magazine· 1 Sept 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated