leading light

A "leading light" refers to someone who is highly respected and influential, often serving as a guide or inspiration within a specific field or community.

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Definition

C1General

(idiomatic)A prominent and influential person within a particular field or community, often looked up to for guidance and inspiration.

Example

  • She is considered a leading light in the field of environmental science.
  • As a leading light in the art community, his opinions are highly valued.

B2Nautical

(technical)A navigational aid that helps guide vessels into a port.

Example

  • The ship followed the leading light to safely enter the harbor.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "leading light":

guiding lightguiding startop lightfirst lightsee the lightleading edgeleading manlead the waybright lightsrange lightfront runnerleading stringsbright young thinggreen lightleading ladylead onsea lightlight of one's eyeleading seamanlead outbright spottake the leadlight engineeringelectric lightray of lightstrike a lead