MEANING
A heavy grating that can be lowered vertically to close a fortified gateway.
Use it for
controlled castle access; trapped arrivals; sudden defensive closureMake an entrance close in a direction characters cannot simply push against.
Words that belong together
- lower the portcullis
- raised portcullis
- portcullis chains
On the page
The portcullis fell before the last wagon cleared the arch.
She counted the rusted teeth of the raised portcullis.
A broken chain left the portcullis hanging dangerously above the envoy.
Nearby words
Related words
Word forms
- Base
- portcullis
Usage notes
Primary category: fantasy. A gate mechanism, not an ordinary hinged door; it may be made of wood, metal, or both. Noun: portcullis; plural portcullises.
Practice this word in a sentenceYour margin notes
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