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Rampart Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rampart

[ˈræmpɑːrt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

castle defense

A rampart is a defensive wall of a castle or walled city, having a broad top with a walkway and typically a stone parapet.

Synonyms

barrier, bulwark, defense, fortification.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rampart

Typically used in historical or military contexts to refer to a defensive wall built around a fortified place.

  • The soldiers lined up along the rampart to repel the invaders.
  • They walked along the ancient ramparts, marveling at the views.
fortification

Refers to military constructions and buildings designed for defense in warfare, such as walls, towers, and other structures.

  • The ancient fortifications were still remarkably intact.
  • They built fortifications around the castle to prepare for the siege.
bulwark

Often used in a protective or defensive sense, not necessarily physical; can also refer to something that provides strong support or protection.

  • Education is a bulwark against poverty.
  • The navy served as a bulwark against enemy attacks.
barrier

Used broadly for any physical or metaphorical obstacle that prevents movement, access, or progress.

  • A barrier was placed across the road to stop traffic.
  • Language barriers can make communication difficult.
defense

General term for measures or structures designed to protect from attack; also used in sports and legal contexts.

  • The city's defense was well-planned and comprehensive.
  • The lawyer's defense was convincing enough to win the case.

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers stood guard on top of the rampart.
  • The enemy army tried to breach the rampart but failed.
  • Archers were positioned along the rampart to defend the castle.
  • The rampart provided protection for the inhabitants of the city.
  • The invaders struggled to climb the steep rampart.
Context #2 | Noun

figurative

A rampart can also refer to a defensive barrier or fortification, whether physical or metaphorical.

Synonyms

defense, protection, safeguard, shield.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rampart

A specific term referring to a defensive wall or barrier, typically found in historical contexts or descriptions of fortifications.

  • The ancient castle was surrounded by a high rampart.
  • They climbed the rampart to get a better view of the approaching army.
defense

General use for any means of protecting against something harmful or dangerous. Often used in both physical and abstract contexts.

  • The city built high walls for better defense against invaders.
  • She prepared a strong defense for her thesis.
protection

Broadly used for providing safety or shielding from harm. Can be applied to people, animals, ideas, or objects.

  • The sunscreen offers protection against UV rays.
  • Parents often worry about the protection of their children.
shield

Refers to a protective device or a means of defense, and can be used both literally and metaphorically.

  • The knight carried a large shield to the battlefield.
  • He used his humor as a shield against criticism.
safeguard

Used when talking about measures taken to ensure safety or prevent something undesirable. Often used in policy, legal, or procedural contexts.

  • New regulations were introduced to safeguard consumer rights.
  • They implemented protocols to safeguard against data breaches.

Examples of usage

  • The company built a marketing rampart against their competitors.
  • Her optimism was a rampart against the challenges she faced.
  • Education is often seen as a rampart against ignorance.
  • The legal system serves as a rampart for justice.
  • The community came together as a rampart against crime.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Historically, ramparts were integral to the design of castles and fortifications, providing vantage points for defenders.
  • Ramparts often had walkways on top, allowing soldiers to patrol and observe from a height.

Historical Significance

  • During medieval times, ramparts were crucial in battles, preventing enemy advances and enhancing the chances of survival.
  • The famous ramparts of cities like Dubrovnik in Croatia played key roles in their defense against invaders over centuries.

Military Strategy

  • Ramparts not only served as physical barriers but were often complemented by ditches and other defenses for better protection.
  • Commanders strategically placed ramparts to create zones of control during warfare, influencing battle tactics.

Art and Culture

  • Ramparts have inspired artists and writers, symbolizing protection and resilience in literature and visual arts.
  • In modern narratives, ramparts can represent both physical and emotional barriers that characters face.

Origin of 'rampart'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'rempart', which means a protective wall.
  • It combines 're-' meaning 'again' and 'parare' meaning to prepare, indicating a preparation for defense.

The word 'rampart' originated from Middle French 'rempart', from remparer 'to fortify', from Latin 're- (expressing intensive force) + imparare 'to defend'. The term has been used since the 16th century to describe fortifications and defenses.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,982, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.