Pioneer

/ˌpaɪəˈnɪə(r)/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who is among the first to explore or settle a new country or area.

The pioneers who settled the American West faced many challenges.

A person who is the first to develop or apply a particular method, area of knowledge, or activity.

She was a pioneer in the field of genetics, making groundbreaking discoveries.

verb

To develop or be the first to use or apply (a new method or area of knowledge).

They pioneered a new technique for renewable energy production.

To lead the way in exploration or development.

The team pioneered efforts to improve wildlife conservation.

From the Middle French 'pionnier', meaning 'foot soldier, pioneer', from 'pie' or 'pion' meaning 'foot'.

pioneer spirit

The attitude of being willing to take risks and explore new possibilities.

pioneer work

The initial work done in a particular field that leads to further developments.

pioneering efforts

Initiatives taken to forge new paths or create new methods.

settler

A person who moves to a new area to live there.

frontiersman

A person who lives in or explores the frontier.

innovator

A person who introduces new methods or ideas.

A cool person who is always trying new things.

She's such a pioneer with her crazy fashion choices!

Someone who is ahead of their time.

That movie was a total pioneer in special effects.