bastion
UK[ˈbæstiən]US[ˈbæstʃən]
n
A projecting part of a fortification built at an angle to the line of a wall, so as to allow defensive fire in several directions.
n
An institution, place, or person strongly defending or upholding particular principles, attitudes, or activities.
Morpheme Breakdown
bast
ion
bast
build, construct
ion
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'bastion' entered English in the 16th century from the French 'bastillon', a diminutive of 'bastille' meaning 'fortress', itself derived from the Old French verb 'bastir' (to build). The deeper Germanic root, likely Frankish bastijan, connects to the idea of constructing with woven materials or bast fiber, reflecting early building techniques. This literal sense of a constructed defensive work evolved into the modern military term for a specific type of fortification. By metaphorical extension, it now commonly refers to any stronghold of ideas or principles, completing its journey from physical construction to abstract bulwark.
Analysis
Structure: bast (build, construct) + ion (noun suffix)
bast: From Old French 'bastir' (to build), of Germanic origin (likely Frankish bastijan 'to bind with bast fiber'), related to building or constructing.
ion: A suffix of Latin origin forming nouns of action or condition.
Examples
The ancient castle's bastion provided a commanding view of the surrounding valley.
The university is regarded as a bastion of free speech and academic liberty.
Despite changing trends, the small bookstore remained a bastion of the local literary community.