CAPONIERE Meaning and
Definition
-
A caponiere is a fortification structure used in defensive military architecture. It can be defined as a small, domed building or a tunnel-like structure located within the ramparts or bastions of a fortress. The term "caponiere" originates from the French word "caponnière" and reflects its architectural purpose.
Typically, a caponiere is designed to provide protection and firepower to the defenders of a fortification. It usually protrudes from the main walls into the surrounding ground, serving as an outpost or a subterranean passage. The structure often consists of thick masonry walls or vaulted corridors, able to withstand artillery fire from potential attackers.
Caponieres are strategically positioned to enable the defenders to fire upon the surrounding areas or to create crossfire between adjacent fortification elements. They can be equipped with gun ports, embrasures, or loopholes for cannons, muskets, or other firearms. In some cases, caponieres may also be equipped with slots or openings to allow for the use of hand-held weapons, such as grenades or spears.
The presence of caponieres enhances the defensive capabilities of a fortress by providing additional lines of defense and increasing the coverage of fire. They improve the efficiency of the fortification system, as they allow defenders to engage assailants from multiple angles simultaneously. Moreover, caponieres can be interconnected through underground tunnels, creating a complex network of defensive passages within a fortress. These tunnels may also serve as communication routes or shelters during combat.
In conclusion, a caponiere is a small fortification structure that plays a crucial role in enhancing the defensibility of a fortress. Its design allows for improved firepower, strategic positioning, and interconnected defensive systems.
-
In mil., a lodgment for soldiers in the dry ditch or the glacis; a kind of way covered by a parapet, and palisaded; a cut in the glacis leading from the covered way to the works at the foot of the glacis.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CAPONIERE
- xaponiere
- vaponiere
- faponiere
- daponiere
- czponiere
- csponiere
- cwponiere
- cqponiere
- caooniere
- caloniere
- ca-oniere
- ca0oniere
- capiniere
- capkniere
- caplniere
- cappniere
- cap0niere
- cap9niere
- capobiere
Etymology of CAPONIERE
The word "caponiere" comes from the French language. Its etymology traces back to the Middle French term "caponnière", which derived from the Italian "capponiera" or "caponiera". In turn, the Italian term has its origin in "cappone", meaning "capon", a castrated rooster.
The term "caponiere" was initially adopted in military architecture during the Renaissance era to describe a small fortified structure or a trench built in the shape of a rooster's comb. It resembled the raised crest of a capon, hence the association with the word "capon". In military context, a caponiere was a defensive feature positioned within the walls or fortresses, usually serving as a covered passage or an armored structure protecting an entrance or a corner. As part of fortifications, caponieres were designed strategically for shooting or observation.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
