bastion

views updated Jun 08 2018

bas·tion / ˈbaschən/ • n. a projecting part of a fortification built at an angle to the line of a wall, so as to allow defensive fire in several directions. ∎ fig. an institution, place, or person strongly defending or upholding particular principles, attitudes, or activities: the last bastion of male privilege.

bastion

views updated May 29 2018

bastion.
1. Defensive projection, usually canted on plan and with battered sides, at an angle of a fortress from which the ground in front of ramparts may be viewed and raked with fire.

2. In gardens, a vantage-point in a corner, or a raised projection, like an arrow-head bastion.

Bastion

views updated May 23 2018

Bastion

BASTION. A projection of a fortification that permits the defender to fire along the front of the main wall (or "curtain").

SEE ALSO Enfilade.

bastion

views updated May 18 2018

bastion projecting part of a fortification. XVI. — F. bastion — It. bastione, ult. f. Gmc. *bastjan BASTE1.