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bastion

noun

/ˈbastɪən/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of bastion

Something that preserves or protects a particular quality that is under threat.
"The small town was a bastion of tradition and old-fashioned values."

Detailed meaning of bastion

A bastion is a also strong and fortified place, such as a fortress or a castle, that is used to defend against attack. It can be a figurative place of safety or protection. The word can also be used more generally to describe something that is strong and reliable, or that serves as a defense or support. For example, you might describe a person as a bastion of strength in times of crisis, or you might describe a company as a bastion of stability in an unstable market.

Example sentences containing bastion

1. The library remains a bastion of knowledge in the digital age.
2. Her courage was a bastion of hope in the face of adversity.
3. In challenging times, humor can be a bastion of sanity.
4. The national park is a bastion of natural beauty and biodiversity.
5. Science is a bastion of reason in a world filled with misinformation.
6. The community center serves as a bastion of unity for the neighborhood.

History and etymology of bastion

The noun 'bastion' has a fortification-themed etymology. It stems from the Italian word 'bastione,' which means 'a fortified position' or 'a bulwark.' This Italian term finds its origins in the Old Provençal word 'bastir,' meaning 'to build,' particularly in the context of fortifications and defensive structures. Over time, 'bastion' came to represent not just a physical fortification but also something that preserves or protects a particular quality or principle that is under threat. This evolution in meaning reflects the notion that just as a bastion provides strong defense against external forces, a figurative bastion can safeguard important values, ideas, or qualities from erosion or danger. The etymology of 'bastion' vividly illustrates the historical connection between fortifications and the protection of cherished principles.

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Further usage examples of bastion

1. Their commitment to equality is a bastion against discrimination.
2. Traditional craftsmanship is a bastion of heritage in the modern world.
3. The fortress stood as a historical bastion of defense against invaders.
4. Education is a bastion against ignorance and prejudice.
5. Journalism plays a crucial role as a bastion of truth in society.
6. Rugby is the primary bastion of masculinity in their culture.
7. The Church was the principal bastion of moral integrity.
8. The constitution is a legal bastion of freedom and liberty.
9. Universities must remain a bastion of high academic standards.
10. The ancient castle served as a bastion of defense against enemy attack.
11. He was a bastion of strength during the difficult times.
12. The company was a bastion of stability in a volatile market.
13. The village festival is a bastion of culture and tradition.
14. The fortress was a bastion of safety for the people inside its walls.
15. The group was a bastion of support for those in need.
16. The bastion of power held firm against the attackers.
17. The organization was a bastion of hope for those who needed it most.
18. He was a bastion of courage and always stood up for what he believed in.
19. The city was a bastion of culture and the arts.
20. The team was a bastion of excellence and always gave their best.
21. The community was a bastion of support for those affected by the disaster.
22. He was a bastion of wisdom and always had the right advice.
23. The company was a bastion of innovation and always pushing the boundaries.
24. The school was a bastion of learning and provided a top-quality education.