Beachhead Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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beachhead
[ˈbiːtʃhɛd ]
Definition
military
A beachhead is a temporary line created when a military unit lands and secures a beach for further troops and supplies to come ashore. It is a crucial strategic point in military operations.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The soldiers successfully established a beachhead on the enemy's shore.
- The marines fought fiercely to expand the beachhead and secure the area for reinforcements.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- The most famous beachhead in history is the one established during the D-Day invasion of Normandy in 1944, which was crucial for the Allies' success.
- Beachheads have played significant roles in military operations throughout history, allowing forces to expand territory after landing.
Military Strategy
- Establishing a beachhead involves significant planning and reconnaissance to ensure the safety and success of troops during an amphibious assault.
- The principle of securing a beachhead is vital in modern military strategy, serving as a critical step for subsequent operations.
Pop Culture
- The concept of a beachhead has appeared in various movies and video games, often portrayed as a dramatic moment in warfare narratives.
- Movies like 'Saving Private Ryan' showcase beachheads and the heroic efforts needed to secure them as pivotal plot points.
Business
- In business, the term is used metaphorically to refer to a starting point in a new market or sector where a company seeks to establish itself.
- Entrepreneurs may aim to create a beachhead to secure initial customers and then expand their influence from that base.
Origin of 'beachhead'
Main points about word origin
- The term originally referred to a secure position on a beach for troops during military operations.
- It combines 'beach' (the shore of a body of water) and 'head' (which means a strong point or a position) to signify a foothold gained in enemy territory.
The term 'beachhead' originated from military warfare, specifically in amphibious operations where troops land on a beach and secure a position to establish a base for further advancement. The concept dates back to early military strategies and has been a critical element in various historical battles and invasions.
See also: beach, beachbird, beachcomber, beachcombing, beachfront.