defensive architecture

American  

[dih-fen-siv ahr-ki-tek-cher] / dɪˈfɛn sɪv ˈɑr kɪˌtɛk tʃər /

noun

1. a style of design or construction that includes features which protect from attacks or enemies.

   The Great Wall of China is one of the largest feats of defensive architecture in history.

2. hostile architecture.

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Etymology

Origin of defensive architecture

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

They documented the defensive architecture, a network of deep ditches, banks, and palisades surrounding a cluster of houses.

From Science Magazine • Nov. 29, 2023

The old medieval town of Rhodes is home to a citadel, one of the finest examples of Gothic defensive architecture, and a well-preserved castle, the Palace of the Grand Master.

From Reuters • Jul. 23, 2023

Its use of bollards and planters was considered a case study in defensive architecture.

From Slate • May 11, 2022

“I think it’s a terrible idea,” Shane Berry, 31, said of the defensive architecture.

From The Guardian • Feb. 24, 2017

Still following the river, I came to that famous bridge, the Pont Valentré, which is one of the most interesting specimens of the defensive architecture of the Middle Ages.

From Wanderings by southern waters, eastern Aquitaine by Barker, Edward Harrison