demilune

[ dem-i-loon ]

noun

1. a crescent.
2. Fortification. an outwork resembling a bastion with a crescent-shaped gorge.
3. a crescent or half-moon shape, as of the top of a piece of furniture.

adjective

1. shaped like a crescent.

demilune

/ -ˌljuːn; ˈdɛmɪˌluːn /

noun

1. fortifications an outwork in front of a fort, shaped like a crescent moon
2. a crescent-shaped object or formation; half-moon

Word History and Origins

Origin of demilune¹

1720–30; < French: half moon. See demi-, lune ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of demilune¹

C18: from French, literally: half-moon

Example Sentences

The small demilune fort, with its four cannon, that was intended to guard the harbour, was also deserted.

From Project Gutenberg

At either end of this crescent or demilune is a large orbweb, surmounted by a tower.

From Project Gutenberg

The breastwork or demilune that had been woven around the outer bounds was leveled in an instant.

From Project Gutenberg