too late to be prevented; this idiomatic meaning may apply in either a military or non-military context.

Origins

The term rearguard (also rereward, rearward) comes from the Old French reregarde, i.e. "the guard which is behind", originating with the medieval custom of dividing an army into three battles or wards; Van, Main (or Middle) and Rear. The Rear Ward usually followed the other wards on the march and during

1.Previous
3.Next