advance guard

noun

1. a body of troops going before the main force to clear the way, guard against surprise, etc.

advance guard

noun

1. a military unit sent ahead of a main body to find gaps in enemy defences, clear away minor opposition, and prevent unexpected contact
2. a temporary military detachment sent ahead of a force to prepare for a landing or other operation, esp by making reconnaissance

Word History and Origins

Origin of advance guard¹

First recorded in 1750–60

Example Sentences

On the evening of September 17th he sent away his advance guard of two thousand men in eighty small boats.

From Project Gutenberg

Thereafter he commanded the advance guard of Victor's army which invaded the Papal States.

From Project Gutenberg

This exclamation was caused by Lawrence and the advance guard charging down upon them.

From Project Gutenberg

Crawling down from the street above, on one side only, and clinging to the upper houses, was the advance guard of the fog.

From Project Gutenberg

The horror and amazement of the advance guard of Turner's force may be imagined when they came upon the scene of conflict.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• forefront
• front line
• leading-edge
• vanguard