standard-bearer

noun

stan·​dard-bear·​er ˈstan-dərd-ˌber-ər 

1

: one who bears a standard or banner

2

: one that leads an organization, movement, or party

a standard-bearer for political reform

Examples of standard-bearer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Cadillac’s recent shift into electric luxury doesn’t figure to change that much, with the all-electric Escalade IQ carrying on the tradition, but the Escalade’s role as the Wreath and Crest’s standard-bearer didn’t come easy. —Will Sabel Courtney, Robb Report, 31 Oct. 2024

Mercedes-Benz Group AG was once a standard-bearer of automotive refinement, but swooning sales and profits underscore how even the lucrative upscale end of the car market is feeling the heat from China. —Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune Asia, 28 Oct. 2024

But as the polls have tightened, both Slotkin and her Republican opponent, former Rep. Mike Rogers, are clear-eyed about how their fortunes and those of the standard-bearers of their parties may not perfectly align. —Philip Elliott / Detroit, TIME, 22 Oct. 2024

Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin, the standard-bearers. —Chadd Scott, Forbes, 15 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

standard-bearer

noun

stan·​dard-bear·​er

ˈstan-dərd-ˌbar-ər,

-ˌber-

1

: one who bears a standard or banner

2

: the leader of an organization or movement