Main Entry: ¹bul·wark

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

Function: noun

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

Date: 15th century

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