What Is the Meaning of Bulwark?

Bulwarks as defensive walls

Castles, seasides, forts and even decks are all locations where bulwarks are found. The word bulwark is commonly used as a noun, but can also be used as a verb.

A Bulwark as a Seawall

Ocean bulwarks

To avoid beach erosion, a bulwark or seawall is built to create a solid structure that can handle the brunt of crashing waves. Bulwarks, or breakwaters, provide protection against flooding or destruction of delicate seashore habitats.

On Boats, Ships and Decks

Ship bulwark

The sides of a boat or ship that extend above the vessel's upper deck are called bulwarks. Bulwark is also a term used to refer to a railing or barrier around a wooden deck.

Defensive Purposes of a Bulwark

Bulwarks protect, support and defend. Bulwarks, or ramparts, were wall-like structures made from stone or brick that encircled castles and forts to discourage and retard enemy invasions.

Origin of Bulwark

Bolwerks came from trees.

The modern form of bulwark comes from the Middle English term "bulwerke," which was derived from the Middle Dutch word, "bolwerk." A "bolwerk" combined the Middle Dutch words for "tree trunk" and "work," as in a rampart made of tree trunks or logs.

Famous Bulwarks

Ancient border bulwark

The Great Wall of China is a famous example of a bulwark--some 5,500 miles long--created to defend the border of China against invading Huns. Hadrian's Wall is another well-known bulwark, constructed under the orders of Roman Emperor Hadrian during the second century.

References

• Princeton WordNet: Bulwark
• Microsoft Encarta Dictionary: Bulwark
• Merriam Webster: Bulwark

Resources

• Notre Dame: Vocabulary Helper--Bulwark
• Travel China Guide: Great Wall of China