Langimage
English

avant-garde

|a-vant-garde|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˌæv.ɑːntˈɡɑːrd/

🇬🇧

/ˌæv.ɒ̃ˈɡɑːd/

innovative

Etymology
Etymology Information

'avant-garde' originates from French, specifically the word 'avant-garde,' where 'avant' meant 'before' and 'garde' meant 'guard.'

Historical Evolution

'avant-garde' was borrowed directly from French into English in the late 19th century, maintaining its original meaning.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'advance guard' in a military context, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'innovative or experimental in the arts.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a group of people who develop new and experimental ideas and methods, especially in the arts.

The avant-garde in the art world often challenges traditional norms.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

relating to or characteristic of the avant-garde; innovative or experimental.

The avant-garde film was unlike anything the audience had seen before.

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Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41