fortification

 
Pronunciation: /ˌfɔːtɪfɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n/

noun

  • a defensive wall or other reinforcement built to strengthen a place against attack: the building and maintenance of fortifications a medieval fortification
  • [mass noun] the action of fortifying or process of being fortified: the fortification of the frontiers

Origin:

late Middle English: via French from late Latin fortificatio(n-), from fortificare (see fortify)