Maginot Line

noun

Ma·​gi·​not Line ˈma-zhə-ˌnō- How to pronounce Maginot Line (audio)
ˈma-jə-
1
: a line of defensive fortifications built before World War II to protect the eastern border of France but easily outflanked by German invaders
2
: a defensive barrier or strategy that inspires a false sense of security

Word History

Etymology

after André Maginot †1932 French minister of war

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Maginot Line was in 1936

Dictionary Entries Near Maginot Line

Cite this Entry

“Maginot Line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Maginot%20Line. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Geographical Definition

Maginot Line

geographical name

Ma·​gi·​not Line ˈma-zhə-ˌnō How to pronounce Maginot Line (audio)
ˈma-jə-
system of defensive fortifications that was built by France in the 1930s to protect its eastern border and stretched for nearly 200 miles (322 kilometers)

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