trench 
/ˈtrɛntʃ/ noun
plural trench·es /ˈtrɛntʃ/ noun [count] 1 a : a long, narrow hole that is dug in the ground : ditch
b : a deep, narrow hole in the ground that is used as protection for soldiers — usually plural ▪ a brave soldier who fought in the trenches in World War I ▪ trench warfare [=military fighting by soldiers in trenches] 2 : a long, narrow hole in the ocean floor
b : a deep, narrow hole in the ground that is used as protection for soldiers — usually plural ▪ a brave soldier who fought in the trenches in World War I ▪ trench warfare [=military fighting by soldiers in trenches]
the trenches
: a place or situation in which people do very difficult work
▪ These people are working every day down in the trenches to improve the lives of refugees.
▪ These people are working every day down in the trenches to improve the lives of refugees.
