rampart
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈræm.pɑːrt/
KK: /ˈræmpɑrt/
noun
Definition
A structure built as a defense, often made of earth or stone, that protects a place from attack.
Example
The soldiers stood behind the rampart, ready to defend the castle.
Conversation
I read about an ancient castle with a huge rampart surrounding it.
That sounds fascinating! Ramparts were such important defenses.
Yeah, they really helped protect against invasions, didn't they?
Exactly! It's amazing to think about how they designed those fortifications.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bulwark
barrier
fortification
Antonyms
vulnerability
exposure
weakness
transitive verb
Definition
To protect or defend something using a defensive wall or barrier.
Example
The soldiers rampart the castle to keep it safe from attacks.
Tense Forms
Past: ramparted
Past Participle: ramparted
Conversation
Did you hear about the old castle they want to restore?
Yeah, I read they plan to rampart it against modern threats.
That sounds really interesting!
Root Explanation
Rampart → The word originates from Old French *rempart*, which means a defensive wall or fortification. It is derived from the combination of "re-" (meaning again) and "parare" (meaning to prepare or make ready). A rampart is thus a structure made ready again for defense, serving as a protective barrier.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wall that is 'prepared' ('parare') again for defense — that's what a rampart is, a protective structure.
Visually Confused Words
apart
reimpart