circumvallation

American  

[ser-kuhm-va-lay-shuhn] / ˌsər kəm væˈleɪ ʃən /

noun

plural

circumvallations

1. the act or process of surrounding a position with a fortification, or circumvallating.

2. a fortification, especially one made of earth, surrounding an area for protection; rampart.

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Example Sentences

The garrison of Nankin, reduced to less than 20,000 men by the continual reinforcements despatched to the armies in Kiang-si, Ngan-whui, and the north bank of the Yang-tze—a proceeding rendered necessary by the shortness of supplies in the capital—was cut off from all communication with its armies in the field by a series of works forming a complete line of circumvallation from the Tsin-hwai river, which enters the Yang-tze a few miles above Nankin, to Yentzeke, a position about five miles below the city, and situated on the Yang-tze river.

From Project Gutenberg

The temple of Abury consisted originally of a grand circumvallation of earth 1,400 feet in diameter, enclosing an area of upwards of twenty-two acres.

From Project Gutenberg

A portion of the ground covered by old Fort Pentago�t is now occupied by buildings, a barn standing within the circumvallation, and the dwelling of Mr. Webb between the shore and the road.

From Project Gutenberg

Standing in the centre, you can see the rim in the long lines of circumvallation which meet the eye as it sweeps round the horizon.

From Project Gutenberg

The circumstances constrained the south throughout every part and parcel of her offensive as powerfully as exhaustion of his supplies constrains the commander of a garrison to a sortie upon what he has reason to believe is the weakest point of the circumvallation.

From Project Gutenberg