First Known Use: 1562
Dictionary
bastion
noun bas·tion \ˈbas-chən\
: a place or system in which something (such as an old-fashioned idea) continues to survive
Full Definition of BASTION
1
: a projecting part of a fortification
2
: a fortified area or position
3
: stronghold 2 <the last bastion of academic standards — American Scientist>
— bas·tioned \-chənd\ adjective
See bastion defined for English-language learners
See bastion defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of BASTION
Middle French, from Old Italian bastione, augmentative of bastia fortress, derivative from dialect form of bastire to build, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German besten to patch
Related to BASTION
- Synonyms
- fort, castle, citadel, fastness, fortification, fortress, hold, redoubt, stronghold
Learn More About BASTION
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up bastion? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).