trailblazer

[ treyl-bley-zer ]

noun

1. a person who blazes blaze a trail for others to follow through unsettled country or wilderness; pathfinder.
2. a pioneer in any field of endeavor:

   a trailblazer in science.

trailblazer

/ ˈtreɪlˌbleɪzə /

noun

1. a leader or pioneer in a particular field
2. a person who blazes a trail

Derived Forms

• ˈtrailˌblazing, adjectivenoun

Word History and Origins

Origin of trailblazer¹

First recorded in 1905–10; trail + blaze ² + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Being of Pakistani descent, Bhaghani said he wanted to be a trailblazer for others like him with an interest in football.

From Los Angeles Times

Mrs Kennedy was a fashion icon who was dedicated to the preservation of the White House, while Mrs Ford was known as a trailblazer who advocated for abortion rights and women's rights.

From BBC

He added: “I am sad to hear the news of her passing but her legacy as a trailblazer in Northern Ireland politics will live on.”

From BBC

Former Alliance leader David Ford also expressed his condolences and described Ms Lo as a “trailblazer in Northern Ireland politics”.

From BBC

Presidential candidate Kamala Harris described him as a "trailblazer".

From BBC

Related Words

• wanderer