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Definitions

pioneer

[pahy-uh-neer] / ˌpaɪ əˈnɪər /
ADJECTIVE
early, first
Synonyms
STRONG
avant-garde brave head inaugural initial lead original primary prime
WEAK
experimental
Antonyms
STRONG
secondary
WEAK
following last late later
NOUN
person who finds a new place, founds something
Synonyms
STRONG
colonist colonizer developer explorer founder guide homesteader immigrant innovator leader pathfinder pilgrim scout settler squatter trailblazer
WEAK
frontier settler
VERB
invent; lay the groundwork
Synonyms
STRONG
begin colonize create develop discover establish explore found initiate instigate institute launch originate prepare spearhead start
WEAK
go out in front map out open up show the way take the lead trailblaze
Antonyms
STRONG
cease complete conclude destroy die end finish halt ignore neglect prevent ruin stop terminate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

So she wasn’t alone and she wasn’t the pioneer, but she was a pioneer.

From Slate • Apr. 18, 2026

Joseph Collins, a longtime cable television executive who helped pioneer the industry’s transition to broadband, died April 2 at his home in Weekapaug, R.I.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

Within Europe, France has attempted to position itself as a pioneer.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

In a statement, Jo Sarsby Management described him as a "true pioneer of wildlife filmmaking" who had captured "some of the most breathtaking and intimate images" of the natural world.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

“Would you care for a hot dog? I extend the same courteous service to all colors and creeds. Paradise Vendors has been a pioneer in the field of public accommodations.”

From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole

Vocabulary lists containing pioneer

"Why Exploring the Ocean Is Mankind's Next Giant Leap," Vocabulary from the commentary

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Promises to Keep

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"Remarks at the Dedication of the Aerospace Medical Health Center" by John F. Kennedy

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