Another word for rear guard can include terms like back, tail, or rearward.
Understanding "Rear Guard"
A rear guard typically refers to the detachment of troops that protects the rear of a marching or retreating army. More broadly, it can also describe the rearmost part of anything, or a group that follows or trails.
Synonyms for "Rear Guard"
Based on common usage and thesaurus entries, several words can serve as synonyms for "rear guard," depending on the specific context:
| Synonym | Definition/Context |
|---|---|
| back | The part or side of something that is away from the front. |
| tail | The rearmost part or end of something. |
| aft | At, near, or towards the stern of a ship or the rear of an aircraft. |
| postern | A back door or gate; often implying a less prominent or rear entrance. |
| rearward | Directed or situated toward the rear. |
| tag end | The very last part or remnant of something. |
| rear part | The section or portion located at the back. |
| other end | The opposite or concluding part of something. |
| hind part | The rear section, particularly of an animal or object. |
Contextual Nuances
While many terms relate to the "rear" or "end," their exact fit as a synonym for "rear guard" depends on the nuance:
- "Rear guard" itself primarily implies a protective or military function.
- Terms like back, tail, rear part, other end, and hind part often refer to the general location or physical extremity rather than a specific role or group.
- Aft is commonly used in nautical or aviation contexts.
- Postern suggests a discrete, rear access point.
- Rearward denotes direction or position.
- Tag end emphasizes the very last, often dwindling, part.
