bulwark

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. That which secures against an enemy, or defends from attack; any means of defense or protection. [ 1913 Webster ]

The royal navy of England hath ever been its greatest defense, . . . the floating bulwark of our island. Blackstone. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. pl. (Naut.) The sides of a ship above the upper deck, usually a fencelike structure around the deck. [ 1913 Webster ]

Syn. -- See Rampart. [ 1913 Webster ]