battle line
Americannoun
noun
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the line along which troops are positioned for battle
-
conflict or argument is about to occur between opposing people or groups
Etymology
Origin of battle line
First recorded in 1805–15
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"This is coming like a tsunami and we are the first people on the battle line," said Sherry Brown, a background actor.
From Barron's • Feb. 17, 2026
The orcas, having identified their target, form a battle line and start charging toward the floe.
From National Geographic • Sep. 13, 2023
Regardless, this “my house, my rules” notion may sound like she is drawing a battle line, but parents control access to their children.
From Washington Post • Jul. 8, 2021
The new canal is expected to push the battle line west - just how far depends on energy prices, canal tolls, infrastructure investments, economic growth and other variables.
From Reuters • May 5, 2016
Marselen felt they would be better placed at either end of the main battle line, where they could beat back any attempt by the foe to turn their flanks.
From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
