counterscarp

American  

[koun-ter-skahrp] / ˈkaʊn tərˌskɑrp /

noun

Fortification.

1. the exterior slope or wall of the ditch of a fort, supporting the covered way.

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counterscarp British  

/ ˈkaʊntəˌskɑːp /

noun

1. fortifications the outer side of the ditch of a fort Compare escarp

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Etymology

Origin of counterscarp

1565–75; counter- + scarp ( def. ) (modeled on Italian contrascarpa ); replacing counterscarfe, with scarfe obsolete variant of scarp ( def. )

Example Sentences

I must remind the reader, in case he has read the history of King William’s wars,—but if he has not,—I then inform him, that one of the most memorable attacks in that siege, was that which was made by the English and Dutch upon the point of the advanced counterscarp, between the gate of St. Nicolas, which inclosed the great sluice or water-stop, where the English were terribly exposed to the shot of the counter-guard and demi-bastion of St. Roch.

From Project Gutenberg

The completion was no further off than the very next morning; which was that of the storm of the counterscarp betwixt the Lower Deule, to the right, and the gate St. Andrew,—and on the left, between St. Magdalen’s and the river.

From Project Gutenberg

Arrived here, the fugitives must ascend the counterscarp, and cross the chevaux-de-frise with which it was furnished.

From Project Gutenberg

There was then so little Apprehension of an Attack, that most of the Generals quitted the Grand Army to assist in the storming of the Counterscarp, which happen'd on the 5th of September at Night.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus, Madame, have I given you what pass'd most remarkable since the Storm of the Counterscarp.

From Project Gutenberg