Definition of portcullis
:a grating of iron hung over the gateway of a fortified place and lowered between grooves to prevent passage
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Origin and Etymology of portcullis
Middle English port colice, from Anglo-French porte coliz, literally, sliding door
PORTCULLIS Defined for English Language Learners
portcullis
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noun
Definition of portcullis for English Language Learners
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: a heavy iron gate that can be raised or lowered at the entrance to a castle
PORTCULLIS Defined for Kids
portcullis
play
noun
port·cul·lis
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pȯrt-ˈkə-ləs
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Definition of portcullis for Students
:a heavy iron gate that can be lowered to prevent entrance (as to a castle)
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