bastion etymology

Etymology:

  • Late Latin: bastionem
  • Italian: bastione
  • French: bastion
  • Old Provençal: bastion
  • Medieval Latin: bastio

Meaning:

  • A projecting part of a fortification, typically pentagonal or triangular in shape, designed to provide covering fire for the curtain walls.

Origin:

  • The ultimate origin of the word "bastion" is unclear, but it is believed to be derived from the Proto-Indo-European root bʰes-, meaning "to stand" or "to be firm." This root gave rise to the Latin word basis, meaning "base" or "foundation," and the Germanic word basjan, meaning "to bind," "to fasten," or "to enclose."

  • The term "bastion" first appeared in the late 15th century, when it was used to describe a type of fortification developed by Italian military engineers during the Italian Wars. These early bastions were typically square or rectangular in shape and were designed to protect the weak points in a fortification's walls.

  • Over time, the design of bastions evolved, and they became more complex and sophisticated. By the 17th century, bastions were typically pentagonal or triangular in shape and were designed to provide covering fire for the curtain walls. This allowed defenders to fire down the length of the walls, making it more difficult for attackers to breach them.

  • Bastions played a key role in the development of fortification architecture, and they were widely used in the construction of fortifications throughout the world until the advent of modern artillery. Today, bastions are still found in many older fortifications and serve as a reminder of the ingenuity of past military engineers.

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