Trailblazing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trailblazing

[หˆtreษชlหŒbleษชzษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

pioneering innovation

Trailblazing refers to the act of being a pioneer or innovator in a particular field or industry. It involves breaking new ground, creating new paths, and setting trends for others to follow.

Synonyms

groundbreaking, innovative, pioneering.

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Word Description / Examples
trailblazing

Used to describe someone or something that is creating new paths or methods in a particular field or activity.

  • She is known for her trailblazing work in cancer research.
  • The company's trailblazing technology is revolutionizing the industry.
pioneering

Emphasizes being among the first to explore or develop new concepts or areas, often requiring courage and originality.

  • He was a pioneering aviator who significantly advanced aviation technology.
  • Their pioneering work in renewable energy is setting new standards.
innovative

Used to describe new and creative ideas, methods, or products that improve upon existing ones.

  • The startup is known for its innovative solutions to common problems.
  • Her innovative designs have won several awards.
groundbreaking

Typically used when describing something that is introducing new and exciting ideas, often with a significant impact.

  • The scientist's groundbreaking discovery could change how we understand physics.
  • Their groundbreaking performance was acclaimed by critics around the world.

Examples of usage

  • Her trailblazing work in the field of technology revolutionized the industry.
  • The company is known for its trailblazing approach to sustainability.
  • His trailblazing efforts in the medical field have saved countless lives.
  • The trailblazing spirit of the early explorers paved the way for future generations.
  • Trailblazing individuals often face challenges and resistance from traditionalists.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Trailblazers in popular culture include figures like Martin Luther King Jr., who led movements for civil rights.
  • In film, characters like Indiana Jones embody the spirit of trailblazing through adventure and discovery.
  • The concept has inspired many songs and books, celebrating those who push boundaries and inspire change.

Science and Technology

  • In technology, trailblazers like Steve Jobs revolutionized personal computing and mobile technology.
  • Scientific trailblazers, like Marie Curie, paved the way for women in science and significantly advanced our understanding of radioactivity.
  • The field of space exploration has seen trailblazing endeavors, such as human spaceflights and Mars rover missions.

History

  • Throughout history, explorers like Lewis and Clark are celebrated for trailblazing new routes across North America.
  • Women such as Amelia Earhart will forever be known as trailblazers in aviation, breaking gender barriers in the early 20th century.
  • The suffragette movement featured many trailblazing women who fought for voting rights, changing the course of history.

Literature

  • Authors like James Baldwin are recognized as trailblazers for their impactful works on race, sexuality, and identity.
  • In childrenโ€™s literature, characters like Harriet the Spy inspire young readers to explore their curiosities and think outside the box.
  • Poets such as Maya Angelou have used their work to blaze trails in the literary world, speaking on social issues and personal experiences.

Origin of 'trailblazing'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'trailblazing' originated from the practice of marking trails in the wilderness for those who follow.
  • It combines the words 'trail,' meaning a path, and 'blaze,' which refers to marking trees or rocks to show the direction.
  • The first recorded use of 'trailblaze' dates back to the early 19th century.

The term 'trailblazing' originated from the practice of marking a trail by blazing or marking trees with a hatchet to guide others along the path. Over time, it evolved to represent the act of pioneering or leading the way in a particular field. The concept of trailblazing has been celebrated in various cultures as a symbol of courage, innovation, and perseverance.


See also: trail, trailblazer, trailblazers, trailer, trailing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,361, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.