machicolation

  1. Noun.  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 upon assailants attacking the base of the walls. Also, the construction of such defenses, in general, when of this character.
  2. Noun.  The act of discharging missiles or pouring burning or melted substances upon assailants through such apertures.

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This entry was last updated on RefTopia from its source on 3/20/2012.