drop zone

American  

noun

1. an area into which paratroopers, soldiers, or supplies are landed from aircraft for a military operation. DZ

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Etymology

Origin of drop zone

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

For the past couple of weeks, it has looked like being four teams - Leeds, Nottingham Forest, West Ham and Tottenham - scrapping it out to avoid the remaining spot in the drop zone.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Leeds and Nottingham Forest were the two big winners from the latest round of fixtures as both claimed big home wins to move eight and five points from the drop zone, respectively.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

Matarazzo, a New Jersey native, had only coached in Germany before replacing Sergio Francisco in late December with Real Sociedad just two points above the drop zone.

From Barron's • Jan. 30, 2026

League leaders Bayern had dropped just four of a possible 54 points so far this campaign and faced a struggling Augsburg who were dangling near the drop zone, having already sacked coach Sandro Wagner.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

The plane steadied as we neared our drop zone.

From "The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates" by Wes Moore