chevaux-de-frise
[shuh-voh-duh-freez]
- plural of cheval-de-frise.
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cheval-de-frise
[shuh-val-duh-freez]
- a portable obstacle, usually a sawhorse, covered with projecting spikes or barbed wire, for military use in closing a passage, breaking in a defensive wall, etc.
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Origin of cheval-de-frise
1680–90; < French; literally, horse of Friesland, so called because first used by Frisians
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for chevaux-de-frise
Historical Examples
Immediately in front of the rifle-pits, a chevaux-de-frise was constructed.
Their progress was obstructed by chevaux-de-frise and other impediments.
History of the Rise of the HuguenotsHenry Baird
In the deep channel between, or under cover of these batteries, several ranges of chevaux-de-frise had been sunk.
Life And Times Of Washington, Volume 2John Frederick Schroeder
Such a chevaux-de-frise would defend a trench against the most courageous regiment.
Jungle PeaceWilliam Beebe
Tops of trees showed over the high garden wall, and the wall was protected by chevaux-de-frise.
The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition Vol. 4 (of 25)Robert Louis Stevenson
cheval-de-frise
- a portable barrier of spikes, sword blades, etc, used to obstruct the passage of cavalry
- a row of spikes or broken glass set as an obstacle on top of a wall
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Word Origin
C17: from French, literally: horse from Friesland (where it was first used)
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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