fortress

/ˈfoɹ.tɹɪs/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: fortresses · fortressing · fortressed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A fortified place; a large and permanent fortification, sometimes including a town; for example a fort, a castle; a stronghold; a place of defense or security.

Noun

Examples

Like the Mesolithic age of 10,000-8000 B.C., the period 6000-4000 B.C. seems to be one of the fall of fortresses and the rise of pastoral nomadism.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A position that, if obtained by the weaker side, will prevent penetration by the opposing side, generally achieving a draw.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To furnish with a fortress or with fortresses; to guard, to fortify.

Verb

Examples

Honour and Beautie in the owners armes, / Are weaklie fortreſt from a world of harmes.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “fortress” mean?

A fortified place; a large and permanent fortification, sometimes including a town; for example a fort, a castle; a stronghold; a place of defense or security.

Is “fortress” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.

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