BARBETTES Meaning and
Definition
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A barbette refers to a key military term that specifically relates to fortifications, particularly those associated with naval or coastal defenses. It typically denotes a protective platform or emplacement that allows artillery weapons to be fired over a parapet or from within an armored structure without any form of concealed or covered protection. The term also characterizes the open, gunnery position where gunners are stationed.
Barbettes can be found on ships, coastal batteries, or fixed fortifications, and are distinct from other types of gun positions such as casemates or turrets. Fortifications employing barbettes were developed as a response to advancements in artillery technology and the need for increased range and accuracy. By positioning the guns in a raised platform, barbettes allowed for a wider field of fire and improved line of sight, while offering a protected firing position for the gunners.
In terms of structure, a barbette often consists of a circular, cylindrical or semi-circular structure with protective armor plating or thick walls on all sides except the top. This design protects the gunners within the structure while allowing the artillery to be pointed and fired directly at enemy targets. Barbettes may also include a rotating base to allow for wider angles of fire.
Overall, barbettes serve as vital components of fortifications and naval defenses, providing an elevated position and a protective enclosure for artillery weapons to be operated effectively and deployed against potential threats.
Etymology of BARBETTES
The word "barbettes" has a French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "barbe" which means "beard". In medieval times, a "barbette" referred to a protective chin-strap or a fencing helmet that had a prolonged chin guard resembling a beard. Over time, the term evolved to refer to various types of protective structures or platforms on military fortifications, specifically those surrounding a gun emplacement or a turret. Today, "barbettes" still generally refers to protective enclosures for guns on naval vessels or fortifications.
