English Dictionary

Definition of “bulwark

bulwark (ˈbʊlwəkPronunciation for bulwark

Definitions

noun

  1. a wall or similar structure used as a fortification; rampart
  2. a person or thing acting as a defence against injury, annoyance, etc
  3. (often plural) nautical a solid vertical fencelike structure along the outward sides of a deck
  4. a breakwater or mole

verb

  1. (tr) to defend or fortify with or as if with a bulwark

Word Origin

C15: via Dutch from Middle High German bolwerk , from bol  plank, boleC15: via Dutch from Middle High German , from plank, 1 + + werkwork

Usage examples

  • They were alone, with Jack's height a bulwark between them and the world.
    Thomas, Rosie, The White Dove (1986)
  • With the Clovis bulwark fallen, what of the mode of entry to this new land?
    New Scientist (1998)
  • The companies formed a natural bulwark against hostile takeovers.
    The Advertiser, Sunday Mail (2005)
  • Jon Moss was the bulwark of the Derbyshire innings, carrying his bat for an unbeaten 75 off 94 balls.
    Times, Sunday Times (2004)
  • It did, however, provide a bulwark against personal corruption that later generations have lacked.
    Simon Ball, THE GUARDSMEN (2004)

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