fastness

American  

[fast-nis, fahst-] / ˈfæst nɪs, ˈfɑst- /

noun

1. a secure or fortified place; stronghold.

   a mountain fastness.

2. the state of being fixed or firm.

   the fastness of democratic institutions.

3. the state of being rapid.

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fastness British  

/ ˈfɑːstnɪs /

noun

1. a stronghold; fortress

2. the state or quality of being firm or secure

3. the ability of a dye to remain permanent and not run or fade

4. archaic swiftness

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Etymology

Origin of fastness

before 900; Middle English; Old English fæstnes. See fast ¹, -ness

Example Sentences

An admirable outcome, were this world one Fastness of the Handdara, but alas we must walk forward troubling the new snow, proving and disproving, asking and answering.

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

At the door of the Round-Tower I was met by a person in white hieb and crimson shirt, with a silver chain over his shoulders: Faxe, the Foreteller of Otherhord Fastness.

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

This Herbor came in the month of Grende to Thangering Fastness and said to the Weaver, “I seek a Foretelling.”

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

“Ashe,” said Herbor, “I have been to Thangering Fastness, and have been answered by the Foretellers. I asked them how long you would live and their answer was, Berosty will live longer than Herbor.”

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

“See the Fastness up there?” said the driver.

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin