parapet

[par-uh-pit, -pet]

noun

1. Fortification.

   1. a defensive wall or elevation, as of earth or stone, in a fortification.

   2. an elevation raised above the main wall or rampart of a permanent fortification.

2. any low protective wall or barrier at the edge of a balcony, roof, bridge, or the like.

parapet

/ -ˌpɛt, ˈpærəpɪt /

noun

1. a low wall or railing along the edge of a balcony, roof, etc

2. Also called: breastwork. a rampart, mound of sandbags, bank, etc, in front of a trench, giving protection from fire from the front

Other Word Forms

• parapeted adjective
• parapetless adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of parapet¹

1575–85; < Italian parapetto, equivalent to para- para- ² + petto chest, breast < Latin pectus

Word History and Origins

Origin of parapet¹

C16: from Italian parapetto, literally: chest-high wall, from _para- ² + petto, from Latin pectus breast

Example Sentences

As well as the surfaces, the existing edge parapets and central reservation barriers are in poor condition and not compliant with current standards.

From BBC

After hearing the onboard announcement, Mr Dolphin wrote: "I do not want to jump into the flag debate, but my train is delayed due to 'people being lowered over bridge parapets to attach flags'."

From BBC

It includes work on the parapets, joints and surfacing.

From BBC

Now, she says she is ready to "stick her head above the parapet".

From BBC

Mr Goldenberg added that there will be others "who share our views, but don't, for their own personal reasons - perfectly fairly - want to put their head above the parapet".

From BBC