bastion

• Nom désignant une fortification ou une place forte, souvent utilisé métaphoriquement pour une personne, un groupe ou une institution qui défend fermement un principe ou une tradition.

A noun referring to a stronghold or fortified place, often used metaphorically to describe a group or institution that defends a particular principle or tradition.

1. Defender of a principleC1formal

   A group or institution that strongly defends a particular principle, belief, or way of life.

   Défenseur d'un principe

   • The university was a bastion of free thought during the political turmoil.
   • The organization is considered a bastion of traditional values.
   • The newspaper was a bastion of journalistic integrity.

   Synonymesbulwarkchampioncitadelfortressguardianstrongholdsupporterupholder

2. Military strongholdB2formal

   A fortified place or stronghold where people could take shelter during a battle or attack.

   bastion (fortification militaire)

   • The soldiers retreated to the bastion for protection.
   • The ancient bastion withstood many sieges.
   • The castle's bastion was built on a hill for a strategic advantage.

   Synonymesbulwarkcastlecitadeldefensefastnessfortfortificationfortresskeeprampartredoubtstronghold

3. Fortification projectionC1formal

   A projecting part of a fortification, such as a rampart, designed to allow defenders to cover the ground in front of the walls.

   Bastion (fortification)

   • The bastion extended outward from the main wall, providing a clear view of the attackers.
   • The architect designed the bastion to protect the castle's main gate.
   • The bastion was reinforced with stone to withstand cannon fire.

   Synonymesbulwark