BASTION Meaning and
Definition
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A bastion is a fortified structure or stronghold that provides protection and defense against enemy attacks. It is typically constructed as a part of a larger defensive system, such as a fortress or a city wall.
In its architectural sense, a bastion is characterized by its polygonal shape, projecting outwards from a defensive wall or rampart and featuring prominent angular corners that provide firing positions for weapons. These protruding angles, known as bastion fronts, allow defenders to have a wider field of fire and better visibility, enhancing their capability to repel attackers.
Beyond its physical attributes, the term "bastion" can also be used metaphorically to describe something that serves as a strong protection or defender of a particular belief, idea, or principle. In this context, a bastion can refer to a person, organization, or institution that is considered a stronghold of certain values or ideologies. It embodies an unwavering commitment to upholding and safeguarding the principles it represents, often resisting external pressures that might threaten its integrity.
This term has its roots in military history and finds its origins in Middle French and Italian words meaning "stronghold" or "fortress." Throughout history, bastions have played a significant role in warfare, serving as crucial defense structures in numerous battles and conflicts. Today, the word "bastion" is used both literally, to describe architectural fortifications, and metaphorically, to depict strongholds of ideas or beliefs.
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A mass of earth built as a wall and faced with sods or bricks, standing out from a fortified work to protect its walls.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of BASTION
The word "bastion" comes from the Middle French "bastillon", which itself derived from the Italian "bastione". The Italian term comes from the Late Latin word "bastire", meaning "to fortify". Ultimately, "bastire" originated from the medieval Greek word "bastazō", which means "to carry" or "to bear". The concept behind this etymology is that a bastion carries or bears the weight of defense, acting as a fortified stronghold or defensive structure.
Similar spelling words for BASTION
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