Main Entry: bas·tion

Pronunciation: \ˈbas-chən\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle French, from Old Italian bastione, augmentative of bastia fortress, derivative from dial. form of bastire to build, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German besten to patch

Date: 1562

1 : a projecting part of a fortification
2 : a fortified area or position
3 : stronghold 2 <the last bastion of academic standards — American Scientist>

— bas·tioned \-chənd\ adjective