Definitions

spearheaded

[speer-hed-id] / ˈspɪərˌhɛd ɪd /

VERB

lead, start

Synonyms

STRONGEST

initiate launch prompt spur

STRONG

bring cause direct guide head helm influence introduce motivate move originate persuade pioneer produce quarterback shepherd

WEAK

bring on get the jump on go out in front run things trail-blaze

Antonyms

STRONGEST

end finish stop

STRONG

discourage dissuade leave misguide mislead neglect result

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Meta spearheaded 2Africa with France’s Orange S.A., alongside other companies.

From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026

Inflation data are due in Europe, while Asia’s week is spearheaded by a heavy run of indicators out of China, inflation prints from India and Malaysia, and a monetary policy decision in Singapore.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

A judge recently sided with a legal challenge spearheaded by The New York Times and ordered the Pentagon to reinstate the passes of certain reporters.

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2026

Gen Qasem Soleimani spearheaded Iranian military operations in the Middle East as head of Iran's elite Quds Force.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

As part of their expedition in 1990, Rob Hall and Gary Ball spearheaded an effort that removed five tons of garbage from Base Camp.

From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer