rearguard
Americanadjective
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of or relating to a rear guard.
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designed to oppose or prevent in a defensive way.
a rearguard strategy.
noun
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a detachment detailed to protect the rear of a military formation, esp in retreat
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an entrenched or conservative element, as in a political party
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an action fought by a rearguard
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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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Europe and the United States will head into Sunday's decisive Solheim Cup singles level on points after a breathtaking rearguard action by the Americans in a nail-biting afternoon fourball session.
From Barron's ● Sep. 12, 2026
"King George, as you know, never set foot in America. And please rest assured, ladies and gentlemen, I am not here as part of some cunning rearguard action."
From Barron's ● Apr. 29, 2026
Felix Passlack, a feisty and impressive operator in the rearguard battle, lost the run of himself.
From BBC ● Apr. 26, 2026
When they do come to bat, it will take a remarkable rearguard to avoid a fourth defeat of a desperately disappointing series.
From BBC ● Jan. 6, 2026
‘At the breach our rearguard must stand, if we are pressed,’ said Éomer.
From "The Two Towers" by J. R. R. Tolkien
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
