foothold Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. noun an area in hostile territory that has been captured and is held awaiting further troops and supplies
   bridgehead.
   
   • an attempt to secure a bridgehead behind enemy lines
   • the only foothold left for British troops in Europe was Gibraltar
2. noun a place providing support for the foot in standing or climbing
   footing.
   
3. noun an initial accomplishment that opens the way for further developments
   beachhead.
   
   • the town became a beachhead in the campaign to ban smoking outdoors
   • they are presently attempting to gain a foothold in the Russian market

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