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Webster 1913 Edition

Machicolation

Machˊi-co-la′tion

,
Noun.
[Cf. LL.
machicolamentum
,
machacolladura
, F.
mâchicolis
,
mâchecoulis
; perh. fr. F.
mèche
match, combustible matter + OF.
coulis
,
couleis
, flowing, fr. OF. & F.
couler
to flow. Cf.
Match
for making fire, and
Cullis
.]
1.
(Mil. Arch.)
An opening between the corbels which support a projecting parapet, or in the floor of a gallery or the roof of a portal, for shooting or dropping missiles upon assailants attacking the base of the walls. Also, the construction of such defenses, in general, when of this character. See Illusts. of
Battlement
and
Castle
.
2.
The act of discharging missiles or pouring burning or melted substances upon assailants through such apertures.

Webster 1828 Edition

Machicolation

MACHICOLA'TION

,
Noun.
In old castles,the pouring of hot substances through apertures in the upper part of the gate assailants; or the apertures themselves.

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