noun

pioneer

pioneer, trailblazer, settler

He was a pioneer in the field of medicine.

He was a pioneer in the field of medicine.

The pioneers traveled west in covered wagons.

The pioneers travelled west in covered wagons.

a pioneer in ((a field)) to be a pioneer in (a field) He was a pioneer in computer science.

a pioneer of ((a movement/technique)) to be a pioneer of (a movement/technique) She was a pioneer of modern dance.

Synonyms: trailblazer, innovator, forerunner

From Old French 'pionnier' (foot soldier, one who prepares the way), from 'pion' (pawn, foot soldier).

Picture a 'pioneer' preparing a path for others, like a foot soldier ('pion') clearing the way.

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