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.
source: WordNet 3.0
a defensive post at the end of a bridge nearest to the enemy
source: WordNet 3.0
A fortification commanding the extremity of a bridge nearest the enemy, to insure the preservation and usefulness of the bridge, and prevent the enemy from crossing; a tête-de-pont.
