rampart

noun

ram·​part ˈram-ˌpärt 

-pərt

1

: a protective barrier : bulwark

2

: a broad embankment raised as a fortification and usually surmounted by a parapet

3

: a wall-like ridge (as of rock fragments, earth, or debris)

Examples of rampart in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Finally, unable to stand down the household guard on her own, Alicent confesses her scheme to Helaena, who orders the sentries on the ramparts to hold fire when Rhaenyra flies in on Syrax. — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 29 June 2026

In 1946, Picasso set up his studio in Château Grimaldi, a former medieval castle perched above the ramparts. — Lane Nieset, Travel + Leisure, 13 June 2026

Near the ramparts of the Hivernage district and not far from the Menara Gardens, the Four Seasons offers an authentic stay in the heart of a lush, Moorish paradise. — Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 10 June 2026

The best are those on top floors with views of the pool or Caribbean Sea beyond city ramparts—uninterrupted for over 500 miles north to Jamaica. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, from ramparer to fortify, from re- + emparer to defend, from Old Occitan emparar, from Vulgar Latin *imparare, from Latin in- in- entry 2 + parare to prepare — more at pare

First Known Use

1536, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rampart

• apart
• depart
• flowchart
• forepart
• impart
• pushcart
• redstart
• restart
• subpart
• sweetheart
• upstart
• art

Kids Definition

rampart

noun

ram·​part ˈram-ˌpärt 

-pərt

: a broad bank or wall raised as a protective barrier

also : any barrier that provides protection