UNMACHICOLATED Meaning and
Definition
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Unmachicolated is an adjective that refers to a type of architectural structure or design lacking machicolations. Machicolations are defensive features found in medieval fortifications and castles, primarily located atop the battlements. These structures consist of small openings or projections in the form of a trough or platform, usually made of stone or wood, which overhang the outer wall. The purpose of machicolations was to allow defenders to drop or shoot projectiles such as rocks, boiling water, or arrows onto attackers at the base of the fortifications.
However, when a structure is described as unmachicolated, it means that it does not possess these specific defensive features. In other words, it lacks the presence of these small openings or projections that would allow for direct defense against invading forces from above.
This term is often used in the context of historical or architectural discussions, particularly when analyzing the defensive capabilities of castles or fortifications. An unmachicolated structure may be seen as less fortified or secure compared to one with machicolations. Consequently, it suggests that the defensive capabilities of the structure may have relied more heavily on alternative features, such as walls, moats, or other defensive mechanisms.
Common Misspellings for UNMACHICOLATED
- ynmachicolated
- hnmachicolated
- jnmachicolated
- inmachicolated
- 8nmachicolated
- 7nmachicolated
- ubmachicolated
- ummachicolated
- ujmachicolated
- uhmachicolated
- unnachicolated
- unkachicolated
- unjachicolated
- unmzchicolated
- unmschicolated
- unmwchicolated
- unmqchicolated
- unmaxhicolated
- unmavhicolated
- unmafhicolated
Etymology of UNMACHICOLATED
The word "unmachicolated" is formed by adding the prefix "un-" to the word "machicolated". To understand the etymology, it is essential to examine the root word, "machicolated" first.
The word "machicolated" comes from the noun "machicolation", which refers to a architectural feature found in fortifications or castles. A machicolation is a projecting gallery or floor that is supported by brackets or corbels overhanging the outer wall of a structure. It is designed with openings or holes through which defensive materials, such as stones or boiling liquids, could be dropped onto attackers.
The term "machicolation" originates from the Old French word "mâchicoulis", which has the same meaning. This Old French word derived from the Medieval Latin "machi(c)olus" with the same definition.
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