Enter a clue or pattern or both:
The Clue
Initial bit of progress (7 letter answer)
The Answer
TOEHOLD
Tags
Notes
The answer TOEHOLD is rarely seen, appearing only about once every 1300 puzzles.
Related Clues
Early progress
Fragile footing
Initial advantage
Initial gain
Initial progress
Slight advantage
Slight support
Initial progress on a tough problem
Definition
TOEHOLD as a noun:
1. a relatively insignificant position from which future progress might be made; "American diplomacy provided a toehold on which to proceed toward peace talks"; "his father gave him a toehold in the oil business"
2. a small foothold used in climbing
3. a wrestling hold in which the toe is held and the leg is twisted against the joints