foothold meaning and definition

FOOTHOLD noun

Definition of foothold (noun)

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