curtain wall

noun

1. (in a framed building) an exterior wall having no structural function.

curtain wall

noun

1. a non-load-bearing external wall attached to a framed structure, often one that is prefabricated
2. a low wall outside the outer wall of a castle, serving as a first line of defence

Word History and Origins

Origin of curtain wall¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

They reached the foot of the rampart, and by the stairway of a tower that was left unguarded, they mounted onto the curtain-wall.

From Project Gutenberg

Already the ditches are deep, the curtain wall of hawthorn high and impenetrable, the approaches narrow.

From Project Gutenberg

Part of the curtain wall was completely reversed by the force of the explosive and now shows its inner face.

From Project Gutenberg

The porter's lodge and curtain-wall enclosing Hulne Priory still stand, and its outline can be traced, though the ruins are scant.

From Project Gutenberg

Come and see the curtain-wall or whatever it is in the cellars of the Htel de la Poste.

From Project Gutenberg