Barb a can, Barbican

[Fr. barbacane; L. Lat. barb a can a, from Ar. burj, a wall, rampart, tower.] ( Fort. ) In ancient fortification, a B. was an advanced work, which frequently covered the draw-bridge at the entrance of a castle; or, with regard to cities, a tower or outwork placed at any important point of the surrounding walls. The term is likewise applied to an aperture made in the wall of a fortre to fire through upon an enemy. Also, to a fort at the entrance of a bridge, or IMG:content-0530.png:[blocks in formation]