Fortalice

/ˈfɔrtəlɪs/ noun

Definition

A small fort or fortified outpost; a stronghold or defensive structure of modest size.

Etymology

From Middle English, ultimately from Old French 'fortalesse' (fortress), which derives from Latin 'fortis' (strong). The suffix '-alice' or '-lice' is a diminutive, suggesting a smaller version of a fortress.

Kelly Says

Fortalice is a wonderful Latinate fortress word that medieval soldiers would have used to describe outposts and garrison towns—it's how military architecture got its English vocabulary from Latin military terms.

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