front-runner

noun

front-run·​ner ˈfrənt-ˌrə-nər How to pronounce front-runner (audio)
1
: a contestant who runs best when in the lead
2
: a leading contestant in or as if in a rivalry or competition
a political front-runner

Examples of front-runner in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
After Prohibition was repealed, the industry was built back stronger than ever where spirits emerged as front-runners over the holds that beer and whiskey previously held in the market. Jillian Dara, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025 The use of the controversial tech soon caused an online outcry against the Oscar front-runner, but Cronenberg believes the backlash was more than just a social media spat. Jack Dunn, Variety, 22 Mar. 2025 The controversy has left a wide opening for mayoral hopefuls to challenge Adams on his early childhood education record, and the race’s front-runners have seized on it as part of their agendas to make New York City more affordable. Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 21 Mar. 2025 Flagg already was considered the likely No. 1 pick even before the 6-foot-9 swingman backed up the acclaim accompanying his arrival on campus by emerging as a national player of the year front-runner his freshman season. Steve Megargee, Chicago Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for front-runner

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of front-runner was in 1896

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Cite this Entry

“Front-runner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/front-runner. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

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