Bridgehead (Noun)
Meaning 1
An area in hostile territory that has been captured and is held awaiting further troops and supplies; "an attempt to secure a bridgehead behind enemy lines"; "the only foothold left for British troops in Europe was Gibraltar".
Classification
Nouns denoting spatial position.
Examples
- The invasion force established a bridgehead on the western coast of the continent, which would serve as a staging area for the main assault.
- The general's plan was to secure a bridgehead on the north bank of the river, then push forward to capture the key city.
- After weeks of fighting, the troops had managed to establish a tenuous bridgehead on the island, but they were running low on food and ammunition.
- The paratroopers were tasked with securing a bridgehead behind enemy lines, to facilitate the landing of the main invasion force.
- The bridgehead at Omaha Beach was the only foothold the Allies had gained on D-Day, and it would take days of fierce fighting to expand it.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
A defensive post at the end of a bridge nearest to the enemy.
Classification
Nouns denoting spatial position.
Examples
- The parachute regiment was tasked with establishing a bridgehead on the north bank of the river to secure the crossing for the main force.
- As the enemy approached, the soldiers hastily fortified the village at the bridgehead to prepare for a last stand.
- After a fierce battle, the enemy managed to gain a foothold on our side of the bridge, threatening to collapse our bridgehead.
- The commander knew that as long as they held the bridgehead, they could maintain a stable supply line and protect their flank.
- The tanks massed at the bridgehead, awaiting the signal to roll across and advance on the enemy positions on the other side.