revetment

 
Pronunciation: /rɪˈvɛtm(ə)nt/

noun

  • (especially in fortification) a retaining wall or facing of masonry or other material, supporting or protecting a rampart, wall, etc..
  • a barricade of earth or sandbags set up to provide protection from blast or to prevent aircraft from overrunning when landing.

Origin:

late 18th century: from French revêtement, from the verb revêtir (see revet)