machicolation

[ muh-chik-uh-ley-shuhn ]

noun

, Architecture.

1. an opening in the floor between the corbels of a projecting gallery or parapet, as on a wall or in the vault of a passage, through which missiles, molten lead, etc., might be cast upon an enemy beneath.
2. a projecting gallery or parapet with such openings.

machicolation

/ məˌtʃɪkəʊˈleɪʃən /

noun

1. (esp in medieval castles) a projecting gallery or parapet supported on corbels having openings through which missiles could be dropped
2. any such opening

Word History and Origins

Origin of machicolation¹

First recorded in 1780–90; machicolate + -ion

Example Sentences

It was therefore superseded ere long by the use of machicolation, where a projecting stone gallery replaced the woodwork.

From Project Gutenberg

Another machicolation (I) opened from the roof in front of the second portcullis and second door.

From Project Gutenberg

This wooden story probably formed the bell chamber; the machicolation-like supports still existed in 1781.

From Project Gutenberg

Gables were furnished with crow-steps, while machicolation became at times almost fantastic.

From Project Gutenberg