foothold
(noun)
noun
1. an area in hostile territory that has been captured and is held awaiting further troops and supplies
- the only foothold left for British troops in Europe was Gibraltar
Similar word(s): bridgehead
Definition categories: location
2. a place providing support for the foot in standing or climbing
Similar word(s): footing
Definition categories: man–made, support
3. an initial accomplishment that opens the way for further developments
- they are presently attempting to gain a foothold in the Russian market
Similar word(s): beachhead
Definition categories: act, accomplishment, achievement