bulwark

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun an embankment built around a space for defensive purposes
  2. noun a fencelike structure around a deck (usually plural)
  3. noun a protective structure of stone or concrete; extends from shore into the water to prevent a beach from washing away

Etymology

From Middle English bulwerk, from Middle Dutch bolwerk, bolwerc and Middle Low German bolwerk, equivalent to bole (“tree trunk”) + work. Cognate with German Bollwerk, Danish bolværk, Swedish bålverk, Dutch bolwerk. Doublet of boulevard (from French boulevard, from Dutch); cognate with Portuguese and Spanish baluarte and Italian baluardo.

In classic literature

Synonyms

rampart, wall

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