pinchback

/ˈpɪntʃbæk/

Definitions

1. noun

A politician who wins a legislative seat by defeating the incumbent in a primary election or run-off, rather than a member of the opposing party in a general election.

“The local news reported on the pinchback’s surprising victory in the primary election.”

Synonyms

  • primary challenger
  • upset winner

Antonyms

  • general election winner
  • incumbent