Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

the Bastille

Noun
/ðə bæsˈtiː/
Definition
A fortress in Paris that was used as a state prison by the kings of France.
Examples
  • The storming of the Bastille is celebrated every year on July 14th in France.
  • During its time as a prison, the Bastille held many political prisoners.
Meaning
Historically significant, the Bastille symbolizes the tyranny of the Bourbon monarchy and its storming in 1789 marked the beginning of the French Revolution.
Synonyms
  • Fortress
  • Prison