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barricade,barrier,grating,obstacle

gate, opening, entrance, doorway

portcullis

Portcullis (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/pɔrtˈkʌl ɪs/

What does portcullis mean?

Portcullis means a heavy, vertically sliding gate or barrier made of metal, typically consisting of a lattice or grating of iron bars.
"The sound of the descending portcullis echoed through the castle walls."

Detailed Meaning of Portcullis

It is commonly found in medieval castles or fortifications as a defensive mechanism. The portcullis is installed in a vertical groove or slot above a gateway or entrance and can be raised or lowered to control access. When lowered, the portcullis acts as a formidable barrier, effectively blocking entry and providing protection against intruders or sieges. It is often equipped with sharp spikes or iron points at the bottom, known as "murder holes," to deter or impede unauthorized access. The portcullis has become an iconic symbol associated with medieval architecture and castle fortifications, representing strength, security, and a sense of historical heritage.

Example Sentences for Portcullis

1. The castle's main entrance was guarded by a massive portcullis.
2. The portcullis creaked as it was slowly raised to allow entry.
3. The invading army faced the challenge of breaching the castle's portcullis.
4. The knights hurriedly raised the portcullis to secure the castle during the attack.
5. The portcullis was an essential defensive feature of medieval fortifications.
6. The portcullis clanged shut, sealing off the castle from the outside world.

Origin and Etymology of Portcullis

The noun 'portcullis' has its roots in medieval architecture and defense mechanisms. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old French word 'porte coleice,' which means 'sliding door' or 'sliding gate.' The word 'porte' translates to 'gate' or 'door,' and 'coleice' derives from the Latin 'colare,' meaning 'to strain' or 'to sieve.' This medieval term was used to describe a heavy, vertically sliding gate or barrier made of metal, typically consisting of a lattice or grating of iron bars. Portcullises were commonly employed as a defensive feature in castles and fortifications during the Middle Ages, designed to protect against intruders and could be quickly lowered to block entry into a fortress. The evolution of this word illustrates the historical importance of such defensive structures and their lasting impact on architectural terminology.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun portcullis:

gate

doorway

entrance

opening

Try Again!

Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Portcullis

1. The portcullis mechanism was meticulously crafted with intricate ironwork.
2. He studied the ancient portcullis design in preparation for building a replica.
3. The portcullis rattled as the guard chain lifted it from the ground.
4. The portcullis served as a visual deterrent, warning potential intruders of the castle's fortified nature.
5. The invading army's battering ram aimed to break through the castle's portcullis.
6. The portcullis was lowered to control access to the inner courtyard.
7. The portcullis was raised to welcome the visiting dignitaries into the castle.
8. The castle's portcullis was a symbol of its impregnability and power.
9. The medieval castle's entrance featured a formidable portcullis.
10. The invaders struggled to breach the castle's portcullis.
11. The portcullis clanged shut, sealing the fortress.
12. We heard the ominous creak of the portcullis lowering.
13. The ancient portcullis was a symbol of security.
14. The knight defended the portcullis with valor.
15. They raised the portcullis to let us inside the castle.
16. The portcullis added an air of mystery to the castle.
17. A well-oiled portcullis operated silently.
18. The portcullis thwarted the enemy's advance.
19. The siege couldn't break the portcullis's defenses.
20. The castle's portcullis was an imposing sight.
21. The portcullis rattled as it descended.
22. We waited anxiously as the portcullis lowered.
23. The portcullis protected the inner sanctum.
24. The portcullis mechanism was a marvel of engineering.
25. The attackers were met with a formidable portcullis.
26. We marveled at the intricate design of the portcullis.
27. The portcullis served as the castle's first line of defense.
28. The portcullis clanged shut, sealing their fate.