front line

[ fruhnt lahyn ]

noun

1. Military. front ( def 9 ).
2. the place where in-person essential work is carried out, especially in jobs that may involve some risk, as in policing, healthcare, emergency services, public transit, grocery, warehouse, and delivery work:

   Our bookstore extends a discount to all the teachers, aides, specialists, librarians, and therapists who are on the front line serving our children in schools every day.

3. the visible forefront in any action, activity, or field:

   TV reporters are constantly involved in the front line of events.

4. Football. front four.
5. Basketball. front court ( def 2b ).

front line

noun

1. military the most advanced military units or elements in a battle
2. the most advanced, exposed, or conspicuous element in any activity or situation
3. frontline modifier
   1. of, relating to, or suitable for the front line of a military formation

      frontline troops

   2. of, relating to, or suitable for public service and business employees who are in direct contact with the public

      frontline staff

   3. to the fore; advanced, conspicuous, etc

      frontline news

   4. of or relating to a country bordering on or close to a hostile country or scene of armed conflict

      leaders of the frontline states attended the summit

Word History and Origins

Origin of front line¹

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

But the front line creeps ever closer, with Russia also threatening to encircle defenders from the north and west.

From BBC

There is an urgent need for more direct donations to locally led organizations to ensure funds reach the front lines as quickly as possible.

From Salon

The invaders are advancing all along the front lines.

From BBC

A Times investigation found that first responders on the front lines of the Woolsey fire struggled during those first critical hours, stymied by communication breakdowns and a scarcity of air tanker support, equipment and firefighters.

From Los Angeles Times

This is useful on the front lines because it’s been almost three years of war, and people are exhausted.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• facade
• façade
• face
• head
• top