Before we take on the expression itself (and all its controversies), let’s look at the meaning of the word cordée. Only much later, around the second half of the 20th century, did the expression premier de cordée achieve its current meaning. Another French word with a similar meaning is gratin meaning the upper crust or upper layer of French society. Les premiers de cordée empêchent les derniers de tomer dans le ravin - The people in the front ensure that those furthest back don't fall into the ravine. For more French words and expressions, head to our French word of the Day section.

Source: The Local November 21, 2019 12:33 UTC