A bridgehead is a term that is commonly used in military and strategic contexts. It refers to a fortified position that is established by an army on the enemy’s side of a river, canal, or other natural obstacle. This position is used to secure a foothold on the enemy’s territory and to launch further attacks.
Definitions
A bridgehead is defined as a fortified position that is established by an army on the enemy’s side of a river, canal, or other natural obstacle. It is used to secure a foothold on the enemy’s territory and to launch further attacks.
Origin
The word “bridgehead” comes from the Middle English word “briggeheued”, which means “fortified position at the end of a bridge”. The word has been used in military contexts since the 16th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a bridgehead is “a fortified position established by an army on the enemy’s side of a river or other obstacle, to secure a foothold from which to launch further attacks”. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “a strong position secured by an army inside enemy territory from which to advance or attack”.
Associations
Bridgeheads are often associated with military operations and warfare. They are used to secure a foothold on the enemy’s territory and to launch further attacks. Bridgeheads can also be used in other contexts, such as business or politics, to refer to a strategic position or advantage.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bridgehead include foothold, stronghold, bastion, redoubt, and citadel.
Antonyms
Antonyms of bridgehead include retreat, surrender, and withdrawal.
The same root words
The word “bridgehead” is derived from the Middle English word “briggeheued”, which is made up of the words “bridge” and “head”. The word “bridge” comes from the Old English word “brycg”, which means “a structure built to span a physical obstacle”. The word “head” comes from the Old English word “heafod”, which means “the upper or front part of the body”.
Example Sentences
- The army established a bridgehead on the enemy’s side of the river.
- The company’s new product gave them a bridgehead in the market.
- The politician’s speech gave her a bridgehead in the election.
- The rebels used the abandoned building as a bridgehead for their attack.
- The team’s early goal gave them a bridgehead in the game.