barbican Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a tower that is part of a defensive structure (such as a castle)
    barbacan.

WordNet

Bar"bi*can, Bar"ba*can noun (Also<
  • Barbican
  • Barbacan
)
Etymology
OE. barbican, barbecan, F. barbacane, LL. barbacana, barbicana, of uncertain origin: cf. Ar. barbakh aqueduct, sewer. F. barbacane also means, an opening to let out water, loophole.
Definitions
  1. ( Fort.) A tower or advanced work defending the entrance to a castle or city, as at a gate or bridge. It was often large and strong, having a ditch and drawbridge of its own.
  2. An opening in the wall of a fortress, through which missiles were discharged upon an enemy.

Webster 1913