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Definition of fortress

fortress

/ˈfɔːr.trəs/
for · tress
Plural:fortresses
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fortress Lexical Profile

fortress Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A heavily protected and impenetrable military stronghold, typically consisting of high walls, towers, and defensive structures designed to house and protect a garrison.

Example

"The ancient stone fortress situated on the coastal cliffs served as the primary line of defense for the historic port city."

2

A place or source of exceptional security, refuge, or defense against outside influences.

Example

"The university library became her intellectual fortress, a quiet sanctuary where she could focus entirely on her academic research."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for fortress

• Nearby Words

fortitude
fortnight
fortnightly
fortress
fortresslike
fortuitous
fortuitously

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'forteresse', borrowed from Old French 'forteresse', deriving from Late Latin 'fortaritia' and Latin 'fortis' meaning 'strong'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Fortress. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/fortress
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