front line

1 of 2

noun

1
a
: a military line formed by the most advanced tactical combat units
b
: an area of potential or actual conflict or struggle
2
: the most advanced, responsible, or visible position in a field or activity

frontline

2 of 2

adjective

front·​line ˈfrənt-ˌlīn How to pronounce frontline (audio)
1
: relating to, being, or involved in a front line
frontline ambulances
2
: first-rate
frontline teachers
also : first-string
a frontline goalie

Examples of front line in a Sentence

Noun These researchers are on the front line of defense against cancer. She has been working on the front lines to educate the poor. Adjective if I'm having brain surgery, I want it done at a frontline hospital
Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
Such weather particularly hampers the military that is strung out on multiple front lines by blunting the advantage of its air power, analysts said. Fox News, 7 May 2024 As with many Japanese businesses, Kansai implemented a Kaizen approach to the operation of moving baggage, looking to continually improve and implement suggestions from workers on the front lines. Bradley Brownell / Jalopnik, Quartz, 6 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for front line 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'front line.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1797, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Adjective

1915, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of front line was circa 1797

Dictionary Entries Near front line

Cite this Entry

“Front line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/front%20line. Accessed 11 May. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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