battering ram

noun

1. an ancient military device with a heavy horizontal ram for battering down walls, gates, etc.

2. any of various similar devices, usually machine-powered, used in demolition, by police and firefighters to force entrance to a building, etc.

battering ram

noun

1. (esp formerly) a large beam used to break down the walls or doors of fortifications

Word History and Origins

Origin of battering ram¹

First recorded in 1605–15