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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Recent Examples of portcullis from the Web
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The front door is often guarded with a metal portcullis.
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Illustration of portcullis
Origin and Etymology of portcullis
Middle English port colice, from Anglo-French porte coliz, literally, sliding door
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First Known Use: 14th century
in the meaning defined above
See Words from the same yearPORTCULLIS Defined for English Language Learners
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
Definition of portcullis for Students
: a heavy iron gate that can be lowered to prevent entrance (as to a castle)
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