pathfinder
nounUK /ˈpɑːθfaɪndə/ · US /ˈpæθˌfaɪndəɹ/
Etymology From path + finder.
1
One who discovers or makes a new path or way through an untraversed region.
- The cow is the true pathfinder and pathmaker.1910, John Burroughs, “Phases of Farm Life”, in In the Catskills, page 67:
- Sorry and frightened, this man was their pathfinder across fields.1961, Norma Lorre Goodrich, “Beowulf”, in The Medieval Myths, New York: The New American Library, page 42:
1 more example
- Pathfinders are trained to improve the viability of potential planets, initiate first contact with unknown species, find suitable outpost sites, and handle any external threats before the first colonist touches soil. The presence of a Pathfinder is a reassurance that a planet can be settled safely and with a high expectation of success.2017, BioWare, Mass Effect: Andromeda, Redwood City: Electronic Arts, →OCLC, PC, scene: Role of a Pathfinder Codex entry:
2
Figuratively One who is the first to do something in a particular field; an innovator, a pioneer.
- Derived terms
- pathfinder prospectus