leading
noun
thin strip of metal used to separate lines of type in printing
Synonymsleadthe activity of leading
“his leadership inspired the team”
Synonymsleadership
adjective
indicating the most important performer or role
“the leading man”
“prima ballerina”
greatest in importance or degree or significance or achievement
“our greatest statesmen”
“the country's leading poet”
Synonymspreeminentgoing or proceeding or going in advance; showing the way
“we rode in the leading car”
“the leading edge of technology”
Oppositesfollowinghaving the leading position or higher score in a contest
“he is ahead by a pawn”
“the leading team in the pennant race”
Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University