rearguard
noun/ˈrɪəɡɑːd/
/ˈrɪrɡɑːrd/
(usually the rearguard)
[singular + singular or plural verb]- a group of soldiers that protect the back part of an army especially when the army is retreating after it has been defeated
- Even the rearguard was/were in full retreat.
Word Originlate Middle English (denoting the rear part of an army): from Old French rereguarde.Definitions on the go
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rearguard