bulwark

¹bul·wark

noun
\ˈbu̇l-(ˌ)wərk, -ˌwȯrk; ˈbəl-(ˌ)wərk; sense 3 also ˈbə-ˌläk\

Definition of BULWARK

1

a : a solid wall-like structure raised for defense : rampart b : breakwater, seawall

2

: a strong support or protection

3

: the side of a ship above the upper deck —usually used in plural

Examples of BULWARK

1. democratic principles that stand as a bulwark against tyranny

Origin of BULWARK

Middle English bulwerke, from Middle Dutch bolwerc, from bolle tree trunk + werc work

First Known Use: 15th century

Other Military Terms

bivouac, logistics, petard, salient, sally, supernumerary, tactical

Rhymes with BULWARK

New York, North York, pitchfork, salt pork, uncork, wood stork