Definition of REARGUARD

rearguard

Plural: rearguards

Noun

  • a detachment assigned to protect the rear of a (retreating) military body
  • The rearmost part of a force, especially a detachment of troops that protect the rear of a retreating force.
  • The defence, collectively the defenders.

Origin / Etymology

From rear + guard. Attested in The Song of Roland c. 1150 (rereguarde). Doublet of retrogarde.

Synonyms

vanguard

Scrabble Score: 11

rearguard: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
rearguard: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
rearguard: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 13

rearguard: valid Words With Friends Word