What does toehold mean?
A toehold is a foothold or a small hold, especially one that is precarious or temporary. It can refer to a physical hold, such as a foothold in a rock face, or a metaphorical hold, such as a politician's grip on power. The word is often used in the context of climbing, politics, or business, where a precarious or temporary hold is necessary to achieve a goal. A toehold can be a small but crucial advantage, and it can also be a fragile or unstable position. The word 'toehold' is often used interchangeably with 'foothold' or 'hold', but it has a slightly more precarious connotation.
nounA foothold or a small hold, especially one that is precarious or temporary.
- A foothold or a small hold, especially one that is precarious or temporary.
"The climber found a toehold in the rock face and pulled herself up."
"The climber found a toehold in the rock face and pulled herself up."
"The politician's toehold on power was precarious."
The plural form 'toeholds' is used to describe multiple footholds or small holds.
"The climber found several toeholds in the rock face and pulled herself up."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of toehold
The word 'toehold' is derived from the Old English words 'tō' meaning 'to' and 'hōld' meaning 'hold'. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe a foothold or a small hold.
Usage notes
The word 'toehold' is often used in the context of climbing, politics, or business, where a precarious or temporary hold is necessary to achieve a goal.