Casemate is a word often used to describe a fortified military structure. Its spelling is based on the Latin word casus, meaning "fall" or "chance," and the French word mat which means "solid." The IPA phonetic transcription for casemate is /ˈkeɪsmeɪt/. The first syllable is pronounced as the English word "case" and the second syllable is pronounced as "mayt." The word casemate is commonly used in military contexts, specifically to describe bomb-proof structures used for storing weapons or ammunition.
A casemate refers to a fortified structure or compartment, typically made of concrete or masonry, that is designed to provide protection to military personnel or equipment within. This term commonly finds its application within the field of military architecture and modern fortifications.
Casemates are often built partially or completely underground and are specifically designed to withstand attacks, such as gunfire, artillery, or bombarding projectiles. They usually have thick walls and a robust roof to provide enhanced resistance against external assaults. The primary purpose of a casemate is to shelter and safeguard troops or important assets, such as ammunition or artillery pieces, while allowing them to operate in a strategic manner.
Casemates may be constructed as a standalone structure or form an integral part of a larger fortification, such as a fortress or a defensive wall. The interior of a casemate is typically divided into different rooms or chambers, which are utilized for various purposes such as sleeping quarters, storage spaces, command centers, or weapon emplacements.
The origin of the word "casemate" can be traced back to the early 17th century, derived from the French word "casematte" and Italian word "casamatta," both of which refer to an underground vaulted chamber. Over time, the term has come to encompass a variety of underground and fortified compartments used in military installations and works.
A vault of mason-work in the flank of a bastion serving as a battery.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "casemate" originated from the French word "casematte", which can be traced back to the Italian word "casamatta". "Casamatta" essentially means a "fortress made from a house" or a "tower made from a house". The Italian term is derived from Latin, where "casa" means "house" and "matta" means "crazy". Thus, the etymology of "casemate" reflects the original concept of a fortified structure built from a preexisting building. Over time, the term "casemate" has come to refer to various types of fortified chambers or compartments within a larger fortification.