breastwork
/ˈbrɛstˌwɜrk/
noun
- A low defensive wall or barrier, often built quickly from earth or other materials, used to protect soldiers.
- Behind the breastwork, the troops waited for the signal to advance.
- The ancient fort had a breastwork made of stone and packed earth.
- The soldiers constructed a breastwork of sandbags to shield themselves from enemy fire.