CRENNEL Meaning and
Definition
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A crennel, also known as a crenel, is a architectural feature commonly found in medieval military fortifications, such as castles, towers, and walls. It refers to the alternating sequence of projections and recesses that are formed by the repeated notching or patterning at the top of a battlement or parapet.
Each crennel consists of a solid part, known as a merlon, and an open space, also called an embrasure or crenel. The merlons are the raised portions of the parapet or battlement that provide a barrier or protection for defenders. On the other hand, the embrasures are the gaps or recesses between the merlons, allowing defenders to observe, shoot arrows or projectiles, or pour boiling liquids on attackers while remaining protected. The crennel design offered a strategic advantage, as it allowed military personnel to effectively defend a position while providing cover and reduced exposure to enemy fire.
The term "crennel" is derived from the Middle English word "crenel" and the Old French word "crenelé," both of which mean "notched" or "indented." Crenellations were widely used from the 11th to the 16th centuries, primarily during the Gothic and medieval periods of architecture. Today, crennels can still be seen in various fortified structures, serving as reminders of the defensive techniques employed in the past.
Etymology of CRENNEL
The word "crennel" is derived from the Old French word "crenel" meaning "notch or hole". It can be traced back further to the Late Latin word "cannellus", which referred to a small tube or pipe. In medieval architecture, crenels were the open spaces or embrasures left in the battlements or defensive walls of castles, which allowed archers or defenders to shoot or observe the surrounding area. Over time, the term "crennel" came to specifically refer to the upright sections or teeth of a battlement.
