Words / C2

BAST-ee-uh-n/ˈbæstiən/

A bastion is a projecting part of a fort, or an institution that strongly defends a principle: a bastion of free speech, the last bastion. Stronghold is the close twin; defence and safeguard (already in the dictionary) are wider. Bulwark (this batch) is a defensive wall or protecting force — the cousin. Do not hang branding on the gate and skip the named key-holder.

Meaning

A place or institution that strongly defends a particular way of life or principle.

Examples

• “A bastion of branding is not a named key-holder.”
• “Stronghold is the close twin. Defence is everyday-wider (already in B1). Safeguard is a protection (already in C1). Bulwark is a wall or shield (this batch). A real ethics clause can be a bastion. A slogan that lets you skip the night key is a hole. Name the holder; the fortress can wait.”

Good to know

A stronghold of a cause. Everyday: stronghold. Close: bulwark (this batch). Contrast: defence / safeguard (already in this dictionary). Branding ≠ a key-holder.

Near in meaning

stronghold, citadel, bulwark, rampart

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