Definition

A heavy grille of metal or wood with sharp points at the bottom, designed to be lowered vertically to block a castle gateway or drawbridge entrance as a defensive barrier.

Example Usage

When the alarm sounded, the portcullis crashed down with a thunderous clang, trapping the invaders in the gatehouse.

Origin

From Old French porte coulisse: porte (gate) + coulisse (sliding), literally a 'sliding gate.'

Fun Fact

Portcullises are used heraldically as symbols of defense and authority; many historical castles and fortifications still retain them as architectural features.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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