Entry 2 senses Webster, 1913 avant-guard /(ȧ*vänt"-gärd`; 277)/ · a·vant·-guard · IPA 01 n. The van or advanced body of an army. See Vanguard. 1. The van or advanced body of an army. See Vanguard. See: Vanguard 2. Same as avant-garde, n.. See: avant-garde