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Fort Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fort

[fษ”หt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

historical

A fortified building or strategic position.

Synonyms

citadel, fortress, stronghold.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fort

A fort is typically a military structure designed for defense and protection. Forts are usually smaller and less extensively fortified than fortresses.

  • The soldiers took refuge in the fort during the enemy attack.
  • Ruins of ancient forts can be found throughout the countryside.
fortress

A fortress is a large, fortified building or complex of buildings used to protect a place against attack. It's larger and more complex than a fort, designed for long-term defense.

  • The massive stone walls of the fortress withstood all sieges.
  • They built a fortress at the border to fend off invasions.
stronghold

A stronghold is a place that has been fortified to protect it against attack. It can also refer to a place where a particular group or idea is strongly defended or upheld.

  • The rebels retreated to their mountain stronghold.
  • The town became a stronghold of resistance during the conflict.
citadel

A citadel is a strong, fortified area or structure within a city used for the defense of the inhabitants, often situated at a high point. It implies a central place of strength and command.

  • The citadel stood on a hill, giving the guards a vantage point over the city.
  • In times of war, the citizens would seek safety within the citadel.

Examples of usage

  • The fort was strategically located on top of the hill.
  • The soldiers defended the fort from enemy attack.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A military garrison.

Synonyms

barracks, base, camp.

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Word Description / Examples
fort

Often used to describe a strong, fortified building or area that is used for defense, especially from historical times or in military context.

  • The soldiers retreated to the fort during the attack
  • The ancient fort stood strong despite the centuries
barracks

Typically refers to buildings used to house soldiers. It can be used in a modern or historical military context.

  • The new recruits were assigned to their barracks
  • The barracks were clean and well-maintained
base

Usually describes a primary location for military operations, which can house troops, vehicles, equipment, and serve as a strategic point. It is also used for non-military contexts, like the primary location for a corporation or organization.

  • The naval base is located near the coast
  • Our companyโ€™s main base is in New York
camp

Commonly refers to a temporary location for lodging, often with tents or simple shelters. It can be used in both military and non-military contexts, such as outdoor recreation.

  • The scouts set up camp near the river
  • The troops established a base camp for their operations

Examples of usage

  • The fort was home to hundreds of soldiers.
  • The troops were stationed at the fort.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To secure a place by fortifying it.

Synonyms

protect, secure, strengthen.

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Word Description / Examples
fort

A temporary or makeshift structure often built by children for fun and play.

  • The kids spent the afternoon building a fort out of blankets and chairs.
  • During the sleepover, they all slept in a cozy fort they had made.
strengthen

To make something stronger or more effective.

  • They did exercises to strengthen their muscles.
  • The government passed new laws to strengthen national security.
secure

To make sure something is safe and not at risk of being harmed or stolen.

  • They worked to secure the building before the storm hit.
  • We need to secure our valuables in a safe place.
protect

To keep someone or something safe from harm or danger.

  • He wore a helmet to protect his head.
  • Parents do everything they can to protect their children.

Examples of usage

  • They fort their position by building barricades.
  • The settlers fortified their homes against potential threats.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'fort' comes from the Latin word 'fortis,' meaning strong, highlighting its function as a strong structure.
  • Throughout history, forts were built to defend against attacks and often became central to military strategies.
  • Forts have evolved from simple wooden stockades to intricate stone structures with complex defenses.

War and Military

  • Many forts were strategically located near rivers or borders to control movement and provide protection.
  • During colonial times, forts played a crucial role in establishing settlements and asserting territorial claims.
  • Forts were often the site of significant battles, showcasing the tactics and technology of the era.

Cultural Representations

  • In many cultures, forts symbolize strength and resilience, appearing in folklore and legends.
  • Films often depict forts as places of last stand or refuge, emphasizing their defensive power.
  • Board games and video games frequently feature forts as locations of strategy and resource management.

Architecture

  • The design of forts often incorporates thick walls, moats, and watchtowers, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes.
  • Different cultures have distinct architectural styles for forts, from Indian forts adorned with intricate carvings to European stone bastions.
  • Fortification techniques have influenced modern military and civilian architecture, emphasizing security.

Tourism and Heritage

  • Many historical forts are now popular tourist destinations, offering insights into history and military technology.
  • Restoration projects aim to preserve the cultural significance of forts for future generations.
  • Some forts have become venues for festivals and events, blending history with community celebration.

Origin of 'fort'

The word 'fort' originated from the Latin word 'fortis', meaning strong. It has been used throughout history to describe fortified structures used for military defense. Forts have played a significant role in warfare, providing protection to soldiers and strategic advantages in battles. From ancient citadels to modern military bases, forts continue to be essential in military operations and defense strategies.

See also: fortify, fortitude, fortnight, fortress, fortune, forty.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,876 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.