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

They then held the bridgehead at Nieuport and the whole western bank of the river.

From Project Gutenberg

Nick was wondering how the old genius had accomplished such a feat when a thick black wall dropped across the bridgehead.

From Project Gutenberg

They are going to attempt to set up a bridgehead on British soil.

From Project Gutenberg

Miss Norman: Will you do me the honour to meet me at the bridgehead at half-past nine—practically at once?

From Project Gutenberg

Even so the Austrian advance continued, while a bridgehead was secured across the Piave at Zenson.

From Project Gutenberg