ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷ noun
Etymology: translation of French tête de pont
1.
a. : a defensive work covering or commanding the extremity of a bridge nearest the enemy
b. : a locality held by the enemy and garrisoned or fortified to protect a bridge site, ford, or defile on the enemy's side
c. : a position or area around or commanding the end of a bridge
railroad shops were built near the bridgehead on the north side — American Guide Series: Arkansas
2.
a. : an advanced position or salient seized in hostile territory and defended as a foothold for further advance
b. : any advanced or initial commanding position (as in politics or commerce)
many bridgeheads have been established along the coast and far up the Amazon to exploit commodities in world demand — Allan Murray
hold a permanent bridgehead in No. American markets — Dennis May
the winning of labor's first international bridgehead — Carol Riegelman