1 a body of troops detached to protect the rear, esp. in retreats.
2 a defensive or conservative element in an organization etc.
Phrases and idioms:
rearguard action
1 Mil. an engagement undertaken by a rearguard.
2 a defensive stand in argument etc., esp. when losing.
Etymology: OF rereguarde (as RETRO-, GUARD)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.