ETYM French pionier, orig., a foot soldier, Old Fren. peonier, from Old Fren. peon a foot soldier, French pion. Related to Pawn in chess.
1. One the first colonists or settler in a new territory.
2. Someone who helps to open up a new line of research or technology or art; SYN. innovator.
ETYM Latin praecursor, from praecurrere to run before; prae before + currere to run. Related to Course.
A person who goes before or announces the coming of another; SYN. forerunner.
A person who settle in a new colony or moves into new country; SYN. colonist.