machicolation

2 definitions found

machicolation - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Machicolation \Mach`i*co*la"tion\, n. [Cf. LL. machicolamentum,
     machacolladura, F. m[^a]chicolis, m[^a]checoulis; perh. fr.
     F. m[`e]che match, combustible matter + OF. coulis, couleis,
     flowing, fr. OF. & F. couler to flow. Cf. Match for making
     fire, and Cullis.]
     [1913 Webster]
     1. (Mil. Arch.) An opening between the corbels which support
        a projecting parapet, or in the floor of a gallery or the
        roof of a portal, for shooting or dropping missiles upon
        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.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. The act of discharging missiles or pouring burning or
        melted substances upon assailants through such apertures.
        [1913 Webster]

machicolation - WordNet (r) 2.1 (2005) :

  machicolation
      n 1: a projecting parapet supported by corbels on a medieval
           castle; has openings through which stones or boiling water
           could be dropped on an enemy