foothold
pronunciation
How to pronounce foothold in British English:
UK [ˈfʊthəʊld]
How to pronounce foothold in American English:
US [ˈfʊthoʊld]
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- Noun:
- an area in hostile territory that has been captured and is held awaiting further troops and supplies
- a place providing support for the foot in standing or climbing
- an initial accomplishment that opens the way for further developments
Word Origin
- foothold (n.)
- 1620s, from foot (n.) + hold (n.). Figurative use by 1650s; "that which sustains the feet firmly," hence "stable ground from which to act."
Example
- 1. But total has still gained a strong foothold here .
- 2. And nation-building never gets a foothold here at home .
- 3. The move gives chi-x its first foothold in the region .
- 4. Could the muslim brotherhood have somehow succeeded in gaining a foothold here ?
- 5. Microsoft 's internet business has struggled to gain a foothold in china .