Definition

1. Noun:
   • An entrenched fortification; a position protected by trenches: A defensive military work, typically consisting of a system of dug trenches and earthworks, designed to protect soldiers from enemy fire and assault.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The army's intrenchment along the ridge made a frontal assault nearly impossible.
  • Archaeologists studied the remains of the ancient intrenchment to understand the battle's tactics.

Advanced Usage

• "To be behind one's intrenchments": To be in a well-defended or secure position, often used metaphorically.
  • The lawyer, behind his legal intrenchments, was confident the case would be dismissed.

Variants and Related Words

• Entrenchment: The more common modern spelling of "intrenchment." Both words share the same meaning.
  • The spelling "entrenchment" is now standard, though "intrenchment" is an older, accepted variant.
• Entrench (verb): To establish a defensive position with trenches; to establish something firmly or solidly.
  • The troops worked all night to entrench their position.
• Trench (noun): A long, narrow ditch.
  • The soldiers took cover in the trench.

Synonyms

• Fortification: A defensive wall or other reinforcement built to strengthen a place against attack.
• Redoubt: A temporary or supplementary fortification, typically square or polygonal and without flanking defenses.
• Earthwork: A large artificial bank of soil, especially one used as a fortification.

Related Phrases

• Dig in: (Phrasal verb) To establish a defensive position by digging trenches.
  • The order came to dig in and prepare for the enemy's advance.

Noun

1. an entrenched fortification; a position protected by trenches