Spearhead

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈspɪə.hÉ›d/
• US IPA: /ˈspɪɹ.hÉ›d/, /ˈspiɹ.hÉ›d/

Origin

spear + head

Full definition of spearhead

Noun

1. The pointed head, or end, of a spear.
2. One who leads or initiates an activity (such as an attack or a campaign).
3. The leading military unit in an attack.
4. (sports) A player who initiates attacking moves
• 2011, September 2, Phil McNulty, Bulgaria 0-3 England, England played at a tempo in attack that was too much for Bulgaria, with width provided at various times by Walcott, Young and Stewart Downing and Rooney acting as the potent spearhead.

Verb

1. (transitive) To drive or campaign ardently for, as an effort, project, etc.He spearheaded the entire project from day one.
• 2012, April 21, Jonathan Jurejko, Newcastle 3-0 Stoke, Newcastle have put themselves within touching distance after a fantastic run which has been spearheaded by the goals of Senegal striker Cisse.