Maginot Line

noun

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

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Cite this Entry

“Maginot Line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Maginot%20Line. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Geographical Definition

Maginot Line

geographical name

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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