bridgehead

[ brij-hed ]

noun

1. a position held or to be gained on the enemy side of a river, defile, or other obstacle, to cover the crossing of friendly troops.
2. any position gained that can be used as a foothold for further advancement; beachhead.
3. a defensive work covering or protecting the end of a bridge toward the enemy.

bridgehead

/ ˈbrɪdʒˌhɛd /

noun

1. an area of ground secured or to be taken on the enemy's side of an obstacle, esp a defended river
2. a fortified or defensive position at the end of a bridge nearest to the enemy
3. an advantageous position gained for future expansion

Word History and Origins

Origin of bridgehead¹

First recorded in 1805–15; bridge ¹ + head

Example Sentences

He was a bridgehead to Labour's traditional working class roots who saw the value in, and indeed personified, championing the aspirations of the less well off.

From BBC

In the call, Putin reportedly said “the current crisis was a direct result of Nato's years-long aggressive policy aimed at creating in Ukrainian territory an anti-Russian bridgehead”.

From BBC

Second and Third Divisions attacked the German bridgehead at the riverside town of Château-Thierry, pushed the enemy back across the Marne, and blocked the way to Paris.

From Literature

Yukov went on to found his own group, called Platsdarm, which can be translated as “bridgehead,” to continue Black Tulip’s mission.

From Seattle Times

Skif knew he first had to plan and persuade the generals that if his men could secure a bridgehead — a strategic crossing point — it would be worthwhile to send troops.

From Seattle Times