Bulwark (&unr_;), n. [Akin to D. bolwerk, G. bollwerk, Sw. bolwerk, Dan. bolvärk, bulvärk, 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.
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2. That which secures against an enemy, or defends from attack; any means of defense or protection.
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The royal navy of England hath ever been its greatest defense, . . . the floating bulwark of our island. Blackstone.
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3. pl. (Naut.) The sides of a ship above the upper deck, usually a fencelike structure around the deck.
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Syn. -- See Rampart.
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