front line

[fruhnt lahyn]

noun

1. Military.,  front.

2. the place where in-person essential work is carried out, especially in jobs that may involve some risk, as in policing, healthcare, emergency services, public transit, grocery, warehouse, and delivery work.

   Our bookstore extends a discount to all the teachers, aides, specialists, librarians, and therapists who are on the front line serving our children in schools every day.

3. the visible forefront in any action, activity, or field.

   TV reporters are constantly involved in the front line of events.

4. Football.,  front four.

5. Basketball.,  front court.

front line

noun

1. military the most advanced military units or elements in a battle

2. the most advanced, exposed, or conspicuous element in any activity or situation

3. frontline. (modifier)

   1. of, relating to, or suitable for the front line of a military formation

      frontline troops

   2. of, relating to, or suitable for public service and business employees who are in direct contact with the public

      frontline staff

   3. to the fore; advanced, conspicuous, etc

      frontline news

   4. of or relating to a country bordering on or close to a hostile country or scene of armed conflict

      leaders of the frontline states attended the summit

Word History and Origins

Origin of front line¹

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

Due to his poor eyesight he did not fight on the front line, but worked at an engineering factory making parts for tanks.

Read more on BBC

One charity in Stockton-on-Tees is on the front line in the fight against fraud offering help, support and advice for thousands of victims every year.

Read more on BBC

The plant produced around 20% of the country’s power before the war and sits close to the front lines.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

While Spurs have picked up some good results, I have still been disappointed with their front line, and their attacking players have not really connected.

Read more on BBC

Now the audience can not just watch the experiences of soldiers on the front line, but experience what they see and what they feel through the helmet cameras and the combination of different mediums...

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• facade 
• face 
• façade 
• head 
• top