breastwork

breast·work

[brest-wurk]
noun Fortification.
a defensive work, usually breast high.

Origin:
1635–45; breast + work

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World English Dictionary
breastwork (ˈbrɛstˌwɜːk) [Click for IPA pronunciation guide]
 
n
fortifications Also called: parapet a temporary defensive work, usually breast-high

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
2009 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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00:10
Breastwork is always a great word to know.
So is slumgullion. Does it mean:
a chattering or flighty, light-headed person.
a stew of meat, vegetables, potatoes, etc.
Etymonline
Word Origin & History

breastwork
"fieldwork thrown up breast-high for defense," 1640s, from breast + work (n.) in "fortification" sense
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
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