English · Family & People

pioneer

/ˌpaɪ.əˈnɪər/

[/ˌpaɪ.əˈnɪər/]

trailblazer, settler

Intermediatenoun

Definition

A pioneer is a person who is among the first to explore, settle, or develop something new.

Example

She was a pioneer in computer science, writing programs long before most people owned machines.

She was a pioneer in computer science, writing programs long before most people owned machines.

Etymology

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

How & Where It’s Used

Used for early settlers and, figuratively, for innovators in any field.

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