vanguard
(noun)
noun
1. the leading units moving at the head of an army
Similar word(s): van
Definition categories: group
2. any creative group active in the innovation and application of new concepts and techniques in a given field (especially in the arts)
Similar word(s): van
Definition categories: group
3. the position of greatest importance or advancement; the leading position in any movement or field
Similar word(s): forefront
Definition categories: thought, perspective, position, view