foothold

American  

[foot-hohld] / ˈfʊtˌhoʊld /

noun

1. a place or support for the feet; foot; a place where a person may stand or walk securely.

2. a secure position, especially a firm basis for further progress or development.

   They gained a foothold in the New York market before beginning their national campaign.

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foothold British  

/ ˈfʊtˌhəʊld /

noun

1. a ledge, hollow, or other place affording a secure grip for the foot, as during climbing

2. a secure position from which further progress may be made

   a foothold for a successful career

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Etymology

Origin of foothold

First recorded in 1615–25; foot + hold ¹

Example Sentences

Monzo, which also pursued a U.S. license but withdrew its application in 2021 after facing regulatory headwinds, didn’t manage to gain a foothold in the highly competitive market.

From The Wall Street Journal

He cited Texas-based petroleum companies Murphy Oil and Apache Oil, a subsidiary of APA, as firms that have already established international footholds.

From Barron's

He cited Texas-based petroleum companies Murphy Oil and Apache Oil, a subsidiary of APA, as firms that have already established international footholds.

From Barron's

This is positive for AEM to gain a foothold in Taiwanese market, the analyst says.

From The Wall Street Journal

Energy drinks have gained a foothold among younger consumers, who are drinking less alcohol than older generations and giving priority to fitness.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• footing
• niche
• perch
• toehold