Meaning of beachhead in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈbitʃˌhɛd/

   US accent

   How to pronounce beachhead in American English, in context ▾
   Use the controls below to browse different examples of pronunciation.

   UK accent

   How to pronounce beachhead in British English, in context ▾
   Use the controls below to browse different examples of pronunciation.

1. Noun

   beachhead

   Etymology

   Second World War (originally US): formed on the pattern of bridgehead

   Definitions

   1. a bridgehead on the enemy's shoreline seized by an amphibious operation

   Examples

   • « the Germans were desperately trying to contain the Anzio beachhead »
2. 2. an initial accomplishment that opens the way for further developments

   Examples

   • « the town became a beachhead in the campaign to ban smoking outdoors »
   • « they are presently attempting to gain a foothold in the Russian market »