bul·wark 
/ˈbʊlˌwɚk/ noun
plural bul·warks /ˈbʊlˌwɚk/ noun [count] 1 formal : something that provides protection for or against something
▪ democratic principles that stand as a bulwark against tyranny ▪ a bulwark of freedom [=something that protects freedom] 2 : a wall that is built for protection : rampart 3 : a wall that is part of a ship's sides and that is above the ship's upper deck — usually plural ▪ the ship's high bulwarks
▪ democratic principles that stand as a bulwark against tyranny ▪ a bulwark of freedom [=something that protects freedom]
