Force fosse is a military term that refers to a defensive ditch or trench typically found around the perimeter of a fortress, town, or city. Synonyms for force fosse include moat, ditch, trench, canal, and waterway. These words are all used to describe an artificial water-filled channel used as a defensive measure. While force fosse is a term that is most commonly used in medieval contexts, synonyms such as trench and moat are still used today to describe similar defensive structures. The use of a force fosse, or one of its synonyms, was essential in providing a layer of protection against potential enemy attacks.