beachhead

American  

[beech-hed] / ˈbitʃˌhɛd /

noun

1. the area that is the first objective of a military force landing on an enemy shore.

2. a secure initial position that has been gained and can be used for further advancement; foothold.

   The company has won a beachhead in the personal computer market.

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beachhead British  

/ ˈbiːtʃˌhɛd /

noun

1. an area on a beach that has been captured from the enemy and on which troops and equipment are landed

2. the object of an amphibious operation

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Etymology

Origin of beachhead

First recorded in 1935–40; beach + head

Explanation

During war, troops coming onshore into enemy territory sometimes set up a beachhead, a temporary line of defense they hold until more soldiers arrive. The World War II term beachhead gets its name from the fact that seagoing forces have landed on a beach. It's also influenced by the earlier bridgehead, a defended position at one end of a bridge. As troops on a beachhead wait for reinforcements, they take a position that's safe and secure, from which they can defend themselves and anticipate advancing further. Figuratively, a beachhead can also be the first step you take toward achievement or progress.