frontliner

[ fruhnt-lahy-ner ]

noun

1. an essential worker whose job depends on in-person interactions and may involve some risk; a frontline worker, especially in policing, healthcare, emergency services, public transit, grocery, warehouse, and delivery work:

   The hand-printed sign outside the emergency clinic read, “Thank you, frontliners!”

Word History and Origins

Origin of frontliner¹

First recorded in 1970–75; in 1895–1900 for an earlier sense “a person in the forefront”; front line ( def ) + -er ¹( def )

Example Sentences

She’s the first Democratic frontliner to lose her seat this cycle.

From Washington Times

Though Trump’s economic policies would benefit Combs’ wealthy tax bracket, the rapper described himself as “a frontliner” whose divine purpose is “saving the Black race,” which he believes could be on the verge of extinction if it continues on its current trajectory.

From Los Angeles Times

“People are thanking me for working as a frontliner. And I am happy to hand over sugar and salt they need,” the Filipino crew member told Reuters on condition of anonymity.

From Reuters

Starting point guard Marina Mabrey has a quad injury, while reserve frontliner Danielle Patterson sat out with a swollen knee.

From Washington Times

This year, the line-up includes over 150 artists like Radical Redemption, Frontliner, Digital Punk, Warface, and Noisecontrollers.

From Forbes