Moating is a term that is commonly used in the fields of architecture and history to describe the defensive structures surrounding or protecting a castle or a fortress. Some possible synonyms for "moating" include fortifying, encircling, barricading, protecting, shielding, safeguarding, embattling, walling, and surrounding. These words are often used interchangeably to describe the same basic concept of creating a barrier around a vulnerable or valuable location. Other related terms that may be associated with "moating" include ramparts, battlements, palisades, parapets, and embrasures, all of which describe different types of defensive structures that may be used to protect a castle or fortress from attack.