BARBACAN

barbican, barbacan

(noun) a tower that is part of a defensive structure (such as a castle)

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Bar"ba*can, n.

Definition: See Barbican.

Bar"bi*can, Bar"ba*can, n. Etym: [OE. barbican, barbecan, F. barbacane, LL. barbacana, barbicana, of uncertain origin: cf. Ar. barbakh aqueduct, sewer. F. barbacane also means, an opening to let out water, loophole.]

1. ( Fort.) A tower or advanced work defending the entrance to a castle or city, as at a gate or bridge. It was often large and strong, having a ditch and drawbridge of its own.

2. An opening in the wall of a fortress, through which missiles were discharged upon an enemy.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



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