MACHICOLATION

machicolation

(noun) a projecting parapet supported by corbels on a medieval castle; has openings through which stones or boiling water could be dropped on an enemy

Source: WordNet® 3.1

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Etymology

Noun

machicolation (countable and uncountable, plural machicolations)

(architectural element) An opening between corbels that support a projecting parapet, or in the floor of a gallery or the roof of a portal, of a fortified building from which missiles can be shot or heated items dropped upon assailants attacking the base of the walls.

Synonym: machicoulis

(architectural element) A projecting parapet with a series of such openings.

Hyponyms

• box machicolation

• slit machicolation, slot machicolation

Coordinate terms

• loophole

• murder hole

Source: Wiktionary

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Mach`i*co*la"tion, n. Etym: [Cf. LL. machicolamentum, machacolladura, F. mâchicolis, mâchecoulis; perh. fr. F. mèche match, combustible matter + OF. coulis, couleis, flowing, fr. OF. & F. couler to flow. Cf. Match for making fire, and Cullis.]

1. (Mil. Arh.)

Definition: An opening between the corbels which support a projecting parapet, or in the floor of a gallery or the roof of a portal, shooting or dropping missiles upen assailants attacking the base of the walls. Also, the construction of such defenses, in general, when of this character. See Illusts. of Battlement and Castle.

2. The act of discharging missiles or pouring burning or melted substances upon assailants through such apertures.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition

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