fortress
UK: ˈfɔːtrəs | US: ˈfɔːrtrəs
n. a large, permanent fortified place; a stronghold for military defense
n. (figuratively) a place or thing providing safety or protection
fortress = fort<strong> + ess<noun suffix denoting place>
- fort (from Latin fortis, meaning "strong")
- ess (a suffix derived from Latin -itia or Old French -esse, indicating a place or state)
Etymology Origin:
The word "fortress" traces back to Latin fortis ("strong"), combined with the suffix -itia (later adapted into Old French as -esse), which denotes a place or condition. Originally used in Old French (forteresse), it entered Middle English to describe a heavily fortified structure. The morpheme "fort" retains its core meaning of strength, while "-ess" transforms it into a physical or symbolic place of security. This reflects the logical progression from "strength" to "a stronghold."
The ancient fortress stood atop the hill, impervious to attacks.
She treated her home like a fortress, rarely letting outsiders in.
The castle was converted into a fortress during the war.
His mind was a fortress of discipline and focus.
The mountain range acted as a natural fortress for the village.