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

More than any other event, Annecy remains the industry’s standard-bearer — a showcase for the biggest studio and streaming projects, a launchpad for independent voices from around the world and, perhaps most importantly, the premier scouting ground for the next generation of animation talent. —Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 19 June 2026

When feelings about the other side are this negatively polarized, then winning – even with a less-than-ideal candidate as your standard-bearer – becomes more crucial than ever. —Charlie Hunt, The Conversation, 18 June 2026

By that measure, the Czinger 21C V Max is the new standard-bearer for the category. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 17 June 2026

Sánchez, a former minister and one of the more durable figures in Castillo’s turbulent administration, emerged as the standard-bearer of Peru’s resurgent left. —Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 16 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for standard-bearer

• bearer
• carer
• error
• fairer
• ferrer
• rarer
• sharer
• terror
• wearer
• cupbearer
• declarer
• preparer

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