noun
- a temporary fortification or defensive wall, typically built at chest height
Usage: military; fortification
Examples
- The soldiers quickly constructed a breastwork from sandbags and timber.
- The defenders fired over the breastwork at the advancing enemy.
- A low breastwork protected the artillery position from small arms fire.
- The fort’s breastwork was reinforced with stone and earth.
- They built a temporary breastwork along the ridge to defend their position.
- The breastwork provided cover for the troops during the siege.