Noun: foothold 'fût,hówld
- A place providing support for the foot in standing or climbing
"The rock climber searched for a secure foothold on the cliff face";
- footing
- An initial accomplishment that opens the way for further developments
"they are presently attempting to gain a foothold in the Russian market";
- beachhead
- An area in hostile territory that has been captured and is held awaiting further troops and supplies
"the only foothold left for British troops in Europe was Gibraltar";
- bridgehead
Derived forms: footholds
Type of: accomplishment, achievement, combat area, combat zone, support
Encyclopedia: Foothold