redoubt Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun (military) a temporary or supplementary fortification; typically square or polygonal without flanking defenses
  2. noun an entrenched stronghold or refuge

WordNet

Re*doubt" noun
Etymology
F. redoute, fem., It. ridotto, LL. reductus, literally, a retreat, from L. reductus drawn back, retired, p. p. of reducere to lead or draw back; cf. F. réduit, also fr. LL. reductus. See Reduce, and cf. Reduct, Rduit, Ridotto.
Definitions
  1. (Fort.) (a) A small, and usually a roughly constructed, fort or outwork of varying shape, commonly erected for a temporary purpose, and without flanking defenses, -- used esp. in fortifying tops of hills and passes, and positions in hostile territory. (b) In permanent works, an outwork placed within another outwork. See F and i in Illust. of Ravelin. Written also redout.
Re*doubt" transitive verb
Etymology
F. redouter, formerly also spelt redoubter; fr. L. pref. re- re- + dubitare to doubt, in LL., to fear. See Doubt.
Definitions
  1. To stand in dread of; to regard with fear; to dread. R.

Webster 1913