Definition
A large medieval siege engine that uses a counterweight and lever system to hurl projectiles such as stones or fireballs at fortified positions. More powerful and accurate than earlier catapults, trebuchets were the dominant siege weapons from the 12th through 15th centuries.
Example Usage
The attackers positioned their trebuchet just out of bowshot range and began launching boulders at the castle walls.
Origin
From Old French 'trebucher' (to stumble or overturn), reflecting the machine's tipping action; used in English since the 13th century
Fun Fact
Modern enthusiasts compete in trebuchet competitions to launch objects like pumpkins and watermelons, with some achieving distances over 300 meters.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
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