Bul"wark (?), n. [Akin to D. bolwerk, G. bollwerk, Sw. bolwerk, Dan. bolvark, bulvark, rampart; akin to G. bohle plank, and werk work, defense. See Bole stem, and Work, n., and cf. Boulevard.]
1. Fort.
A rampart; a fortification; a bastion or outwork.
2.
That which secures against an enemy, or defends from attack; any means of defense or protection.
The royal navy of England hath ever been its greatest defense, . . . the floating bulwark of our island.
Blackstone.
3. pl. Naut.
The sides of a ship above the upper deck.
Syn. -- See Rampart.
© Webster 1913.
Bul"wark, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Bulwarked (); p. pr. & vb.n. Bulwarking.]
To fortify with, or as with, a rampart or wall; to secure by fortification; to protect.
Of some proud city, bulwarked round and armed
With rising towers.
Glover.
© Webster 1913.