Vanguard/ˈvænɡɑːrd/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Figurative Use Used to describe leaders of a movement, not a physical location. The author is in the vanguard of modern poetry. Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Positive Being in the vanguard can imply exposure to criticism or risks. He is in the vanguard of controversial environmental reforms. Pro Tip 3/3Neutral Tone Doesn't imply good or bad, simply a leading or prominent position. The tech company remains in the vanguard of the industry.