# fortify

/ˈfɔɹtɪˌfaɪ/ (US) · /fˈɔːtɪfˌaɪ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fortify
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

to make something stronger or more secure. You use this when you add extra protection to a building or when you strengthen your body with food.

For teachers: to strengthen or reinforce a structure, position, or person. Often used in military contexts to describe the addition of defensive works or in a figurative sense to describe the strengthening of the body or mind.

## Examples

- The soldiers fortify the walls with sandbags.
- The company decided to fortify its defenses against cyber attacks by hiring more security experts.
- By fortifying the perimeter with trenches and heavy artillery, the general hoped to deter the enemy from attempting a direct assault during the winter months.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.