Bridgehead: meaning, definitions and examples

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bridgehead

 

[ ˈbrɪdʒhɛd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

military

A fortified position established by an army on enemy territory to serve as a base for further operations. A bridgehead is crucial for advancing troops and supplies into enemy territory.

Synonyms

base, foothold, stronghold

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers successfully captured the bridgehead, allowing the rest of the army to advance.
  • Securing the bridgehead was the first step in the military operation.
Context #2 | Noun

figurative

A strong position gained by an individual or group in a particular area, especially in terms of influence or control.

Synonyms

foothold, stronghold, toehold

Examples of usage

  • The company established a bridgehead in the new market by offering innovative products.
  • The political party secured a bridgehead in the region with their grassroots campaign.

Translations

Translations of the word "bridgehead" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cabeça de ponte

🇮🇳 सिर की जगह

🇩🇪 Brückenkopf

🇮🇩 kepala jembatan

🇺🇦 плацдарм

🇵🇱 przyczółek

🇯🇵 橋頭堡 (きょうとうほ)

🇫🇷 tête de pont

🇪🇸 cabeza de puente

🇹🇷 köprübaşı

🇰🇷 교두보

🇸🇦 رأس الجسر

🇨🇿 předmostí

🇸🇰 predmostie

🇨🇳 桥头堡 (qiáotóubǎo)

🇸🇮 mostišče

🇮🇸 brúarhöfuð

🇰🇿 көпір басы

🇬🇪 ხიდის თავი

🇦🇿 körpü başı

🇲🇽 cabeza de puente

Etymology

The term 'bridgehead' originated in military contexts, referring to a strategic position established by an army on enemy territory. It has since been adapted figuratively to describe a position of strength or influence gained by individuals or groups. The word combines 'bridge,' representing connection or passage, with 'head,' denoting a leading position or forefront. Over time, 'bridgehead' has come to symbolize a pivotal starting point for further advancement or expansion.

See also: bridge.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,274, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.