Rearguard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ก๏ธ
rearguard
[หrษชrหษกษrd ]
Definitions
military strategy
Rearguard refers to a military unit that protects the rear of a main force during a march or a retreat. This unit is crucial in defending against enemy attacks while the main body of troops moves to a safer position.
Synonyms
back guard, defensive unit, protection.
Examples of usage
- The rearguard held off the enemy while the troops regrouped.
- During the retreat, the rearguard was tasked with ensuring a safe passage.
- The general ordered a rearguard action to delay the advancing forces.
figurative use
In a broader, figurative sense, rearguard can also refer to individuals or groups that oppose or delay change or progression in a certain context, such as politics or social movements.
Synonyms
opponent, resistor, traditionalist.
Examples of usage
- The committee acted as a rearguard against the proposed reforms.
- In the face of modernization, the rearguard of traditionalists resisted new ideas.
- The rearguard's efforts to maintain the status quo were unsuccessful.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Military Strategy
- In warfare, the rearguard plays a crucial role in preventing enemy forces from flanking or attacking the retreating main body.
- Historical battles often highlight famous rearguard actions, where troops made strategic sacrifices to ensure safe withdrawal of their main forces.
- The effectiveness of a rearguard can determine the outcome of a military campaign, protecting vital resources and personnel.
Pop Culture
- Movies and books often depict rearguard actions as moments of bravery and sacrifice, adding drama to the storyline.
- The phrase has seeped into everyday language, often used metaphorically to signify any group protecting another from behind.
- In video games, characters may take on rearguard roles to offer support or cover for team members in critical moments.
Historical Examples
- During the retreat from Moscow in 1812, the rearguard units faced overwhelming odds while protecting the remnants of Napoleonโs army.
- The Battle of Dunkirk in World War II saw British and Allied forces relying on rearguard actions to cover the evacuation of troops under fire.
- Rearguard actions were pivotal in Vietnam, where small units would delay advancing forces, allowing larger groups to regroup and escape.
Modern Usage
- In modern contexts, 'rearguard' can refer to efforts made to protect existing practices or beliefs in the face of change.
- Organizations may have a rearguard strategy when defending their position from criticisms or competition in the business world.
- The term is often invoked in discussions about cultural changes, referring to those who resist new trends in favor of traditional ideologies.
Origin of 'rearguard'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'rearguard' originated in the early 16th century, combining 'rear' (back) and 'guard' (to protect).
- It was initially used in a military context, describing the troops positioned at the back of a formation.
- The concept emphasizes safeguarding from potential threats approaching from behind.
The term 'rearguard' originates from military lexicon, where it combines 'rear', meaning the back part of an army or formation, and 'guard', referring to protection or defense. The concept has been used extensively throughout history, especially in military contexts, where it denotes a strategic positioning of troops to cover and protect the main force during maneuvers. The word has French roots, likely deriving from 'arriรจre-garde', with 'arriรจre' meaning 'back' and 'garde' meaning 'guard'. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass not only military application but also broader societal implications, referring to groups resisting change or progress. This historical evolution showcases the term's flexibility and its ability to convey notions of defense and resistance across various fields.