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machicolation |
1 definition found From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]: 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}.] 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, 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.
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