Moat

/moʊt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A deep, wide ditch surrounding a castle, fort, or town, typically filled with water, intended as a defense against invasion.

The castle was surrounded by a deep moat that made it nearly impossible for attackers to approach.

Any similar body of water or trench surrounding a fortified place.

In medieval architecture, a moat often served both a defensive and aesthetic purpose.

A protective barrier or obstacle, metaphorically likened to a physical moat.

The company implemented strict security measures as a moat against cyber threats.

Middle English 'mote', from Old French 'mote', which came from the Latin 'mūta', meaning 'earth or earthworks'.

cross the moat

To overcome a barrier or challenge.

moat of despair

A significant emotional barrier that is hard to overcome.

guard the moat

To protect one's interests or boundaries vigilantly.

fortification

A defensive wall or military stronghold.

rampart

A defensive wall of a castle or walled city.

bastion

A projecting part of a fortification.