a·vant-garde 
(ä′vänt-gärd, ăv′änt-)
(ä′vänt-gärd, ăv′änt-)n.
A group that creates or promotes innovative ideas or techniques in a given field, especially in the arts.
adj.
Of, relating to, or being part of an innovative group, especially one in the arts: avant-garde painters; an avant-garde theater piece.
[French, from Old French, vanguard; see VANGUARD.]
a′vant-gardism n.
a′vant-gardist n.