pioneer

Definition

One who goes before, as into the wilderness, preparing the way for others to follow.

Etymology

From Middle French pionnier (“originally, a foot soldier”), Old French peonier, from peon (“a foot soldier”) (modern French: pion). See pawn (in chess).

Example Sentences

• "Some people will consider their national heroes to be pioneers of civilization."
• "Certain politicians can be considered as pioneers of reform."
• "As towns continue to grow, replanting vegetation has become a form of urban utopia and green roofs are spreading fast. Last year 1m square metres of plant-covered roofing was built in France, as much as in the US, and 10 times more than in Germany, the pioneer in this field."