FOOTHOLD

beachhead, foothold

(noun) an initial accomplishment that opens the way for further developments; ā€œthe town became a beachhead in the campaign to ban smoking outdoorsā€; ā€œthey are presently attempting to gain a foothold in the Russian marketā€

foothold, footing

(noun) a place providing support for the foot in standing or climbing

bridgehead, foothold

(noun) an area in hostile territory that has been captured and is held awaiting further troops and supplies; ā€œan attempt to secure a bridgehead behind enemy linesā€; ā€œthe only foothold left for British troops in Europe was Gibraltarā€

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Etymology

Noun

foothold (plural footholds)

(climbing) A solid grip with the feet.

(by extension) A secure position from which it is difficult to be dislodged.

(military) Airhead, beachhead, bridgehead, lodgement.

Source: Wiktionary


Foot"hold`, n.

Definition: A holding with the feet; firm L'Estrange.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



RESET




Word of the Day

29 March 2025

THOUGHTLESS

(adjective) without care or thought for others; ā€œthe thoughtless saying of a great princess on being informed that the people had no bread; ā€˜Let them eat cakeā€™ā€


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Coffee Trivia

In the 18th century, the Swedish government made coffee and its paraphernalia (including cups and dishes) illegal for its supposed ties to rebellious sentiment.

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