If you mean "coming after in a sequence":
* Preceding: This means coming before in a sequence. For example, the opposite of following "cat" in the alphabet is "b."
* Going before: This is another way to say preceding.
If you mean "obeying or adhering to":
* Disobeying: This means refusing to follow instructions or rules.
* Ignoring: This means paying no attention to.
* Defying: This means actively resisting or opposing.
* Violating: This means breaking a rule or law.
If you mean "tracking or pursuing":
* Leading: This means going in front of.
* Evading: This means avoiding or escaping from.
* Outpacing: This means moving faster than.
To give you the most accurate answer, please provide more context about what you mean by "following a word."