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.
The silver lining though was that Josh Allen became the front-runner for MVP after his incredible performance. Andy Scholes, CNN, 12 Dec. 2024 This move is significant not just because of the team switch, but also due to the standard of performance expected at JGR, a front-runner in the NASCAR Cup Series. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024 Wicked made a strong showing, earning Ariana Grande her first Golden Globe nomination, and the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown is another front-runner, with nods including Best Male Actor in a drama, for Timothée Chalamet, and the coveted Best Picture – Drama award. Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 9 Dec. 2024 Competition for trophies in the Musical/Comedy field will be tough, but Emilia also landed a nomination for Best Film Not in the English Language, where it should be considered the front-runner. Jen Chaney, Vulture, 9 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near front-runner

Cite this Entry

“Front-runner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/front-runner. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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