foothold
UK: ˈfʊthəʊld | US: ˈfʊthoʊld
n. a secure position from which further progress may be made
n. a place where one’s foot can be lodged to support oneself
The word "foothold" combines "foot" (Old English fōt, meaning the lower limb) and "hold" (Old English healdan, meaning to grasp or support). It emerged in Middle English (14th century) as a literal term for a secure placement of the foot, later metaphorically extending to denote a stable position for advancement (e.g., in climbing or military strategy). The morphemes retain their original meanings, reflecting the word’s concrete-to-abstract evolution.
The climber searched for a foothold on the rocky cliff.
The company gained a foothold in the Asian market.
She struggled to find a foothold on the slippery path.
The treaty provided a political foothold for negotiations.
Without a proper foothold, the ladder wobbled dangerously.