Definition

A person who is the first to do something or who leads the way in a particular area, often inspiring others to follow.

Example

She was a trailblazer in the field of technology, creating new opportunities for women.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new CEO?

Yeah, I heard she's a real trailblazer in the industry.

It's exciting to have someone like her leading the company.

For sure! I think she'll inspire a lot of us to think outside the box.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Trailblazer → It is formed from "trail" (from Old French *traille*, meaning a path or track) and "blazer" (from "blaze" which comes from the Old English *blæse*, meaning to mark or make visible). A trailblazer is someone who marks a path or creates a new way for others to follow.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'marks' ('blaze') a 'path' ('trail') for others to follow — that's what a trailblazer does.

Visually Confused Words