fastness

[ fast-nis, fahst- ]

/ ˈfæst nɪs, ˈfɑst- /

a secure or fortified place; stronghold: a mountain fastness.

the state of being fixed or firm: the fastness of democratic institutions.

the state of being rapid.

Origin of fastness

before 900; Middle English; Old English fæstnes. See fast¹, -ness

He was insulted by the emperor from his fastness at Ravenna.

History of the Intellectual Development of Europe, Volume I (of 2) |John William Draper
Edwin had to brace himself again, for an assault upon the fastness of the stationmaster.

Hilda Lessways |Arnold Bennett
Not even a hunter would find it necessary to penetrate this fastness.

The Heritage of the Hills |Arthur P. Hankins
His spirit retired far into its fastness, taking with it all his energies.

The Leopard Woman |Stewart Edward White

Should they go on their way, leaving the unfriendly chief in the security of his fastness?

Sea-Dogs All! |Tom Bevan

fastness

/ (ˈfɑːstnɪs) /

a stronghold; fortress

the state or quality of being firm or secure

the ability of a dye to remain permanent and not run or fade

archaic swiftness

Old English fæstnes; see fast 1