Definition
A medieval power move: stack dirt, plop a fort on top, dig a moat around it, and call yourself a nobleman. Popular with medieval developers who wanted to minimize construction costs while maximizing defensive flex.
Example Usage
The Norman invaders built a motte-and-bailey fortress to establish dominance over the local population.
Source: Medieval architecture terminology, common in historical studies
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “motte” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
Try the TranslatorShare This Term
Discover a Term
Beginner
gmta
great minds think alike...