rearguard

American  

[reer-gahrd] / ˈrɪərˌgɑrd /

Or rear-guard

adjective

1. of or relating to a rear guard.

2. designed to oppose or prevent in a defensive way.

   a rearguard strategy.

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rearguard British  

/ ˈrɪəˌɡɑːd /

noun

1. a detachment detailed to protect the rear of a military formation, esp in retreat

2. an entrenched or conservative element, as in a political party

3. 1. an action fought by a rearguard

   2. a defensive action undertaken to try to stop something happening or continuing

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Etymology

Origin of rearguard

First recorded in 1895–1900; attributive use of rear guard

Example Sentences

This show of support was the product of an intense rearguard action from Sir Keir's inner team, some of them in interim positions after days of turmoil.

From BBC • Feb. 10, 2026

The Wallabies were down on the scoreboard but headed into half-time on the up after a rearguard action had kept them within touching distance of the hosts.

From BBC • Nov. 1, 2025

From there it was the Warriors' rearguard which decided the outcome.

From BBC • Oct. 3, 2025

A year ago, Verstappen called his car "a monster" as Red Bull's performance slumped while he tried to fight a rearguard title defence.

From BBC • Sep. 7, 2025

‘At the breach our rearguard must stand, if we are pressed,’ said Éomer.

From "The Two Towers" by J. R. R. Tolkien