redout

1 definition found

redout - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Redoubt \Re*doubt"\ (r?*dout"), n. [F. redoute, fem., It.
     ridotto, LL. reductus, literally, a retreat, from L. reductus
     drawn back, retired, p. p. of reducere to lead or draw back;
     cf. F. r['e]duit, also fr. LL. reductus. See Reduce, and
     cf. Reduct, R['e]duit, Ridotto.] (Fort.)
     (a) A small, and usually a roughly constructed, fort or
         outwork of varying shape, commonly erected for a
         temporary purpose, and without flanking defenses, -- used
         esp. in fortifying tops of hills and passes, and
         positions in hostile territory.
     (b) In permanent works, an outwork placed within another
         outwork. See F and i in Illust. of Ravelin. [Written
         also redout.]
         [1913 Webster]