Definition of ravelin in English:

noun

• An outwork of fortifications, with two faces forming a salient angle, constructed beyond the main ditch and in front of the curtain.

  Example sentences

  • ‘A ravelin is a V shaped fortification used to protect the entrance of a fort.’
  • ‘Madam, we require your presence on the north-western ravelin immediately.’
  • ‘Detached works called ravelins or (from their appearance) demi-lunes (half-moons) often stood out in front of the curtain between the bastions, and sometimes extra works formed an extra outer skin of fortifications.’

  Synonyms

  rampart, defensive wall, defences, bulwark, palisade, stockade, redoubt, earthwork, outwork, bastion, parapet, battlement, blockhouse, barricade, buttress, stronghold

  View synonyms