pathfinder

[path-fahyn-der, pahth‑]

noun

1. a person who finds or makes a path, way, route, etc., especially through a previously unexplored or untraveled wilderness.

2. an airplane, or a person dropped from a plane, sent into a target area to illuminate the area for succeeding aircraft.

3. a radar beacon beamed into a target area to provide guidance for missiles seeking the target.

4. (initial capital letter),  an unmanned spacecraft that landed on Mars on July 4, 1997, to obtain climatic and geologic data.

pathfinder

/ ˈpɑːθˌfaɪndə /

noun

1. a person who makes or finds a way, esp through unexplored areas or fields of knowledge

2. an aircraft or parachutist who indicates a target area by dropping flares, etc

3. a radar device used for navigation or homing onto a target

Other Word Forms

• pathfinding noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pathfinder¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40; path + finder

Example Sentences

"We set high standards, it can be a pathfinder, it can be a test-bed that we do together before it is expanded to the broader region," he said.

From Reuters

Experts describe imports by Singapore of hydroelectric-generated power from Laos via transmissions through Thailand and Malaysia as a “pathfinder” project, marking the first time that four countries in the region have agreed to trade electricity.

From Seattle Times

"The fact that it can is a major breakthrough because this is now a pathfinder project for similar projects in Europe."

From Reuters

This mission, called CAPSTONE, is meant to serve as a pathfinder.

From The Verge

“I do see this as a pathfinder for how we can help facilitate commercial missions beyond Earth,” Mr. Baker said.

From New York Times

Related Words

• counselor 
• mentor 
• model 
• pilot 
• teacher