0 a small hole or surface on a rock that is just big enough for a climber to put the end of his or her foot in or on:
I searched desperately for a toehold in the rock face.
1 a strong first position from which further progress can be made:
2 a starting point in a job or other opportunity from which you can advance:
3 an opportunity to start doing something small that may lead to bigger and better opportunities in the future:
to gain/get a toehold in sth With their new electronic products they have gained a toehold in an increasingly competitive market.
The company is fighting for a toehold in the world's largest soft drinks market.
Here, perhaps, would be a toehold for a refutation.
The wicked beast which must not be allowed to get a toehold in the door is statute law.
The need to retain a toehold and not to abandon an interest in the trade is paramount.
They are not allowed even to continue in part-time employment to maintain their toehold in the employment market.
Such people must not be given a toehold.
I hope that at least this new clause will provide a toehold for those who wish to express a view on this issue.
Many families want to enable both parents to keep a toehold in the world of work and need to do so in ways that maximise their family income.
However, they clung to a precarious toehold on the ridge.
