bulwark

[ˈbʊlwərk]

bulwark Definition

• 1. a defensive wall or barrier
• 2. a person, institution, or principle that acts as a defense

Using bulwark: Examples

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

• Example

  The castle's bulwarks were reinforced with stone.

• Example

  Education is a bulwark against poverty.

• Example

  The constitution serves as a bulwark against tyranny.

bulwark Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for bulwark

• rampart
• fortification
• barrier
• shield
• protection

Antonyms for bulwark

• weakness
• vulnerability

Phrases with bulwark

• break down someone's bulwark

  to overcome someone's defenses or resistance

  Example

  Her charm broke down his emotional bulwark and he fell in love with her.

• bulwark of democracy

  an institution or principle that protects democratic values and freedoms

  Example

  A free press is considered a bulwark of democracy.

• bulwark against something

  a defense or protection against something

  Example

  Vaccines are a bulwark against infectious diseases.

Origins of bulwark

from Middle Dutch 'bolwerk', meaning 'bastion'

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Summary: bulwark in Brief

The term 'bulwark' [ˈbʊlwərk] refers to a defensive wall or barrier, or a person, institution, or principle that acts as a defense. It can be physical, like the castle's bulwarks, or abstract, like education as a bulwark against poverty. Phrases include 'bulwark of democracy,' and 'bulwark against something,' while idioms are not commonly used. 'Bulwark' is often used formally, as in 'a barrier' or 'a defense.'