rearguard

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Alternative spellings 1.2 Etymology 1.3 Noun 1.3.1 Usage notes 1.3.2 Antonyms 1.3.3 Translations

[edit] English

[edit] Alternative spellings

• rear guard, rear-guard

[edit] Etymology

rear +‎ guard

[edit] Noun

rearguard (plural rearguards)

1. (military) The rearmost part of a force, especially a detachment of troops that protect the rear of a retreating force.

[edit] Usage notes

• Usually used attributively.

[edit] Antonyms

• vanguard

[edit] Translations