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

They pushed Arsenal close with their rearguard action at Emirates Stadium last weekend, but still lost in the end.

From BBC • Dec. 18, 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

England were denied a series win by India's rearguard in the fourth Test at Old Trafford.

From BBC • Aug. 1, 2025

Out of the gloom behind a small company of horsemen galloped, all that was left of the rearguard.

From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien