avantgarde
|a-vant-garde|
🇺🇸
/ˌævɑːnˈɡɑrd/
🇬🇧
/ˌævɑː̃nˈɡɑːd/
(avant-garde)
innovative
Etymology
'avant-garde' originates from French, specifically the word 'avant-garde', where 'avant' meant 'before/in front of' and 'garde' meant 'guard/guarding'.
'avant-garde' came into English usage in the 19th century from the French military term 'avant-garde' (literally 'vanguard'), and it was later extended to arts and culture to mean the leading edge of innovation.
Initially, it meant 'the front part of an army' (the vanguard), but over time it evolved into its cultural/artistic meaning of 'those at the forefront of new, experimental ideas.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
artists, works, or movements that are experimental, innovative, or ahead of their time, especially in the arts.
The museum's new wing showcases the avantgarde of contemporary art.
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Noun 2
a group of people or artists who lead the way in new ideas or techniques (the leading edge or vanguard).
She was part of the avantgarde that redefined theater in the 60s.
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Adjective 1
characterized by unorthodox, experimental, or innovative methods or ideas.
They staged an avantgarde performance that defied conventional narrative.
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Last updated: 2025/11/30 18:54