Defilade

/ˌdɛfɪˈleɪd/ noun

Definition

A military position or fortification that is protected from enemy fire by natural or artificial cover.

Etymology

From French défilé, from défiler (to defile or pass by), originally meaning a narrow passage. In military use since the 18th century, it describes positions where troops file through narrow passages protected by terrain.

Kelly Says

Defilade is a brilliant military concept—soldiers could march through mountain passes completely hidden from enemy fire, turning geography itself into a shield!

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