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

All of that, he believes, leads them to needing a clear strategy to gain a foothold.

From BBC

It is not hard to see how the group has been able to gain a foothold here as there is very little sign of a government presence.

From BBC

Modern France still has overseas territories across the globe, from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean and Pacific, legacies of the colonial era that are now vital strategic footholds for Paris.

From Barron's

Morgan Stanley manages $53 billion in gross real estate assets worldwide and has been building a foothold in industrial hubs near major ports and transportation links.

From Los Angeles Times

After 18 months of besieging el-Fasher, the RSF captured the city - a major victory pushing the army out of its last foothold in the vast Darfur region.

From BBC

Related Words

• footing
• niche
• perch
• toehold