1
a
: a military line formed by the most advanced tactical combat units
also
: front sense 2a(2)
b
: an area of potential or actual conflict or struggle
2
: the most advanced, responsible, or visible position in a field or activity
front·line
ˈfrənt-ˌlīn 
1
: relating to, being, or involved in a front line
frontline ambulances
2
: first-rate
frontline teachers
Synonyms of front line
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
Aidan Stretch, CBS News, 9 June 2026
With the front line barely moving as swarms of drones hinder advances, both sides have sought an edge by launching long-range strikes.
—Pan Pylas, Los Angeles Times, 7 June 2026
Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 30 May 2026
Submarines are a particular focus, prompting a robust response from frontline NATO states, primarily Norway, the UK and — for now, at least — the US.
—Alan Crawford, Bloomberg, 20 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for front line
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Noun
Two generals agreed with Ashley's characterization, stressing the view that on the front lines, Ukraine was outmaneuvering Russia.
—Aidan Stretch, CBS News, 9 June 2026
With the front line barely moving as swarms of drones hinder advances, both sides have sought an edge by launching long-range strikes.
—Pan Pylas, Los Angeles Times, 7 June 2026
Adjective
Flight attendants, while still dressed appropriately and serving drinks and food to fliers, are also frontline employees during aviation incidents, ushering passengers out on slides or handling other emergency situations.
—Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 30 May 2026
Submarines are a particular focus, prompting a robust response from frontline NATO states, primarily Norway, the UK and — for now, at least — the US.
—Alan Crawford, Bloomberg, 20 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for front line
Cite this Entry
“Front line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/front%20line. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
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