Outpost: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a small, remote station or settlement, especially one positioned far from a main establishment or in a frontier area.

• The explorers established an outpost in the middle of the desert to conduct their research.
• The military outpost served as the first line of defense against any approaching threats.

Refers to a group of troops stationed at a specific location for its defense. It can also denote the location where these troops are housed.

• The small garrison was tasked with defending the supply route.
• The town's garrison was on high alert due to the threat of invasion.

Often implies a strong, fortified building or complex built for defense against enemies. Used most commonly in a historical or military context.

• The old fort still stands as a reminder of the town's colonial past.
• The troops were ordered to reinforce the fort before the enemy attack.

Typically refers to a central location where operations are coordinated, such as a military, naval, or air force facility. It can also be used in non-military contexts like business or research.

• The soldiers returned to base after their mission.
• The research team worked from their base in the Arctic to study climate change.

Use this term when referring to a distant military or strategic location, often in a remote or hostile area.

• The soldiers were stationed at a remote outpost in the desert.
• An outpost was established to monitor enemy movements.

This term is best used for a new place where people come to live and build a community, without the implications of control from a distant authority.

• The settlement eventually became a thriving town.
• Early settlements often faced many hardships.

This word is suitable when talking about a group of people who settle in a new region, often under the control of their home country. It can have a historical or colonial context.

• The British established colonies in North America in the 17th century.
• The colony grew rapidly due to the influx of settlers.

This word is most appropriate when referring to a specific place where people or equipment are situated and perform a particular function. Often used in a scientific or transportation context.

• The research team set up their station in the Arctic.
• The train arrived at the station on time.