standard-bearer

noun

stan·​dard-bear·​er ˈstan-dərd-ˌber-ər How to pronounce standard-bearer (audio)
Synonyms of standard-bearernext
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
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.
By that measure, the Czinger 21C V Max is the new standard-bearer for the category. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 17 June 2026 On Monday, the Canucks added a third-round pick and a high-quality person capable of serving as a new cultural standard-bearer for the team. — Thomas Drance, New York Times, 30 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 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 See All Example Sentences for standard-bearer

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of standard-bearer was in the 15th century

Rhymes for standard-bearer

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Browse Nearby Words

standard atmosphere
standard-bearer
standardbred
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Cite this Entry

“Standard-bearer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/standard-bearer. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

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