GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Pioneer , n. [F. pionier, orig., a foot soldier, OF. peonier, fr. OF. peon a foot soldier, F. pion. See Pawn in chess.]
   (Mil.) A soldier detailed or employed to form roads, dig trenches, and make bridges, as an army advances.
   1913 Webster
   One who goes before, as into the wilderness, preparing the way for others to follow; as, pioneers of civilization; pioneers of reform.
   1913 Webster
         
       

2.       
   Pioneer, v. t. & i. [imp. & p. p. Pioneered ; p. pr. & vb. n. Pioneering.]
   To go before, and prepare or open a way for; to act as pioneer.
   1913 Webster
   to take part in the early development of; to break ground in; to invent or originate.
   PJC