Embattlement: meaning, definitions and examples

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embattlement

[ɪmˈbætlmənt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

castle defense

An embattlement is a defensive wall with regular gaps for firing through, especially on top of a castle or tower. Embattlements were often used in medieval times to provide protection for archers or soldiers against enemy attacks.

Synonyms

battlement, crenellation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
embattlement	Same as the first 'embattlement' example, used in historical or architectural contexts to describe fortified walls. The embattlement was a key defense mechanism in medieval times.
battlement	Use in a general or historical context to talk about defensive parapets on top of castle walls, typically with regular gaps. Knights stood guard on the battlement, watching for enemies.
crenellation	This term is more technical and specific to describe the repeated squares or indentations on the top of a wall for military defense. The architect included crenellation in the design to give the building a medieval look.

Word

Description / Examples

embattlement

Same as the first 'embattlement' example, used in historical or architectural contexts to describe fortified walls.

The embattlement was a key defense mechanism in medieval times.

battlement

Use in a general or historical context to talk about defensive parapets on top of castle walls, typically with regular gaps.

Knights stood guard on the battlement, watching for enemies.

crenellation

This term is more technical and specific to describe the repeated squares or indentations on the top of a wall for military defense.

The architect included crenellation in the design to give the building a medieval look.

Examples of usage

The soldiers hid behind the embattlements, ready to defend the castle from invaders.
The castle's embattlements offered a strategic advantage during the siege.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Middle French word 'embatteler', meaning to provide with battlements.
The root word is 'battle', indicating its original function related to warfare and protection.

Architecture

Embattlements typically feature a series of teeth-like projections called crenellations.
These structures not only served defensive purposes but also contributed to the aesthetic appeal of castles.

Historical Significance

Commonly found in medieval structures, embattlements were crucial during sieges, providing cover for defenders.
The design of embattlements varied by region; for example, those seen in Britain often differ from continental Europe.

Pop Culture

Embattlements appear in many fantasy novels, such as those in the 'Game of Thrones' series, symbolizing power and protection.
Video games featuring castles often portray embattlements to enhance strategic elements during gameplay.

Military History

These structures were part of the fortifications that played a key role in the success or failure of many historical battles.
The evolution of weaponry, such as cannons, led to the redesign of embattlements to better withstand attacks.

Translations

Translations of the word "embattlement" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fortificação

🇮🇳 दुर्ग

🇩🇪 Befestigung

🇮🇩 benteng

🇺🇦 укріплення

🇵🇱 umocnienie

🇯🇵 要塞

🇫🇷 fortification

🇪🇸 fortificación

🇹🇷 tahkimat

🇰🇷 요새

🇸🇦 تحصين

🇨🇿 opevnění

🇸🇰 opevnenie

🇨🇳 堡垒

🇸🇮 utrdbi

🇮🇸 víggirðing

🇰🇿 бекініс

🇬🇪 გალავანი

🇦🇿 möhkəmləndirmə

🇲🇽 fortificación