front foot

noun

1. a foot measured along the front of a lot.

Word History and Origins

Origin of front foot¹

An Americanism dating back to 1805–15

Example Sentences

Everton have played on the front foot in wins against Brighton and Wolves this season, while they were unfortunate to draw with Aston Villa last weekend after wasting a host of golden chances.

From BBC

After Rosie Galligan and Meg Jones put England on the front foot, prop Clifford burrowed over for the first try after 12 minutes.

From BBC

Crocker was windmilling a little but did raise the noise with some right hands to the temple of Donovan, but the Limerick man was on the front foot a little more in another round which was difficult to score, leaving both anxiously waiting for the verdict after 12 engrossing rounds.

From BBC

Before the Burger miss, Matthew Breetzke comically put down Jamie Smith on 23 when a leading edge from the opener, whose 62 put England on the front foot, looped to him at extra cover.

From BBC

It wasn't long before New Zealand were back on the front foot and Jorja Miller was denied by Emily Lane's try-saving tackle.

From BBC