Vanward

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. Moving or directed toward the front or vanguard; advancing forward in position or progress
2. Directed or moving toward the foremost part of a group or formation
3. Advancing ahead of others as part of the forefront in movement or action

Etymology: "Vanward" is simply "van" with the suffix "-ward," meaning "in the direction of." The "van" part is the front of an army or fleet, or more generally the leading position in any movement. It comes from "vanguard," shortened by dropping "guard," so the word has always pointed to the front of something that is advancing. The suffix "-ward" traces back through Old English "-weard" to Proto-Germanic "*wardaz," and ultimately to an Indo-European root meaning "to turn." That turning sense explains why "-ward" describes direction: "homeward," "backward," and "vanward" all name a way of facing or moving.