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

For example, our violinist, Olha Rukavishnikova, lost her eye on the front line.

From Los Angeles Times

Can you tell us about a particularly memorable front line performance?

From Los Angeles Times

A soldier who was officially the only British woman to fight on the front line during World War One has been hailed as a "pioneer for women" by a local historian.

From BBC

Speaking at the Social Enterprise Scotland conference in Edinburgh, Swinney warned the tax increase could have "devastating consequences for front line services".

From BBC

He fought like hell with Memphis’ giant front line.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• facade
• façade
• face
• head
• top