Definition Of Bulwark

Bulwarks were often used in castles in the Middle Ages.

A bulwark is defined as a solid wall that is used for architectural, defensive or maritime purposes. Sometimes the word is also used as a metaphor.

Etymology

Bulwark is a noun that has its sources in Middle English and Middle Dutch from the 15th century. In Middle English it comes from the word "bulwerke." In Middle Dutch it comes from the word "bolwerk." The components of the Dutch origin are "bolle" (tree trunk) and "werc" (work).

Architecture

Bulwark is also an architectural term for a wall that supports other parts of a structure.

Defense

Bulwarks are also called fortresses and ramparts. They were used during the Middle Ages as a part of a castle's defense.

Maritime

Bulwarks also refer to the side of the ship that lies above the upper decks.

Metaphor

Finally, bulwark is sometimes used as a metaphor in speech and literature. A concept or idea is often said to be a bulwark against a unpleasant outcome. For example, in American political rhetoric, America was presented as the last bulwark against a communist takeover during the Cold War.

References

• Merriam-Webster: Bulwark
• Google Books: A Dictionary of the Architecture and Archeology of the Middle Ages

Resources

• Google Books: Political Language and Metaphor
• Naval History & Heritage: Bulwark