fortress

[ˈfɔːtrəs]

fortress Definition

a large, heavily protected building or area that is used for military purposes or to keep people safe from attack.

Using fortress: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fortress" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The fortress was built to protect the city from invaders.

  • Example

    The enemy army laid siege to the fortress for months.

  • Example

    The prisoners were held in a fortress-like building.

  • Example

    The castle was converted into a fortress during the war.

fortress Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with fortress

  • to surround and attack a fortress with the aim of capturing it

    Example

    The enemy army besieged the fortress for months before finally capturing it.

  • a fortress that cannot be breached or entered by force

    Example

    The castle was considered an impenetrable fortress until the enemy found a secret passage.

  • a state of mind characterized by defensiveness, suspicion, and fear of outsiders

    Example

    The company's management had a fortress mentality, refusing to listen to feedback or suggestions from employees.

Origins of fortress

from Old French 'forteresse', from Latin 'fortis' meaning 'strong'

📌

Summary: fortress in Brief

A 'fortress' [ˈfɔːtrəs] is a large, heavily protected building or area used for military purposes or to keep people safe from attack. It can refer to a physical structure like a castle or a fortified building, as well as a state of mind characterized by defensiveness and suspicion. Examples include 'The fortress was built to protect the city from invaders.' and 'The company's management had a fortress mentality.'

How do native speakers use this expression?