fortress

noun

for·​tress ˈfȯr-trəs 

: a fortified place : stronghold

especially : a large and permanent fortification sometimes including a town

fortresslike

ˈfȯr-trəs-līk 

adjective

Synonyms

• bastion
• castle
• citadel
• fastness
• fort
• fortification
• hold
• redoubt
• stronghold

Examples of fortress in a Sentence

the boys built a snow fortress and then challenged the neighborhood kids to an in-your-face snowball fight

Recent Examples on the Web

Ashford Castle – Ireland Originating from the 13th century, the magnificent Ashford Castle has a rich history, evolving from a medieval fortress to a grand luxury retreat adorned with antiques and artwork. —Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025

Venice brokered a long peace with the Ottomans after the fall of Constantinople to beef up its fleets and fortresses. —A. Wess Mitchell, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025

Much of what ensues takes place at the boss’s preposterously grandiose lodge — nay, castlelike fortress — tucked in wilderness and protected by armed guards. —Manohla Dargis, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025

In the clip, Gallagher, from Glen Ellyn, Illinois, approaches a fortress of cushions and pillows with a dog biscuit, before placing it down nearby and walking away. —Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English forteresse, from Anglo-French fortelesce, forteresse, from Medieval Latin fortalitia, from Latin fortis strong

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

fortress

noun

for·​tress ˈfȯr-trəs 

: a fortified place