How Do You Spell EMBRASURE?

Pronunciation: [ɛmbɹˈaʒə] (IPA)

Embrasure (/ˈɛmbrəʒər/) is a word often used in architecture and fortification to refer to an opening in a wall or fortification where weapons, such as guns or cannons, can be fired from. The word's spelling can be broken down into its phonetic sounds: /ɛ/ as in egg, /m/ as in mother, /b/ as in boy, /r/ as in red, /ə/ as in a (schwa sound), and /ʒər/ as in treasure. Pronouncing each sound individually and then blending them together creates the proper pronunciation of the word.

EMBRASURE Meaning and Definition

1. An embrasure is a structural feature, typically found in fortifications and defensive structures, that serves as an opening or aperture for the placement of guns, cannons, or artillery pieces. It is specifically designed to allow the efficient firing of weapons while providing protection to the gunners.

   Embrasures are typically constructed with thick, sloping walls on either side, forming a narrow opening that widens towards the outside. This design enhances the defense of the structure by providing limited exposure for the gunners while maximizing their field of fire. Additionally, a raised platform or gun platform is often built within the embrasure, allowing the weapons to be elevated or aimed at specific targets.

   The purpose of an embrasure is twofold: to offer a clear line of sight for the gunners and to offer optimal protection from enemy fire. The sloping walls and narrowing structure of the embrasure serve to deflect projectiles, such as cannonballs or bullets, away from the gunners. By narrowing towards the outside, the embrasure also minimizes exposure to enemy fire, making it difficult for attackers to hit the gunners within.

   Embrasures can be found in various types of defensive architecture, including castles, city walls, and military bunkers. Over time, the design and construction of embrasures have evolved, incorporating advancements in military technology and changing defensive strategies. However, the fundamental purpose of providing a protective aperture for offensive weaponry remains consistent throughout their history.

2. In dentistry denoting an opening that widens outwardly or inwardly; that part of the interproximate space that spreads out toward the labial, lingual, or buccal aspect.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. The splayed opening in a wall or parapet for a cannon to fire through; the sloping or spreading sides of a wall or window.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for EMBRASURE

• embrase
• embraser
• embrasse
• ejbrasure
• embrazure
• embrisure
• embresure
• embasade
• Imbrasery
• Embrasom

Etymology of EMBRASURE

The word "embrasure" comes from the Old French word "embraser", which is derived from the Latin word "inbrasura". The Latin term is a combination of the prefix "in", meaning "in" or "into", and "brāsiō", which means "crave" or "desire". Over time, the meaning of "inbrasura" evolved to refer to a gap or an opening, specifically in fortifications and military structures. Eventually, in the 15th century, the word entered the English language as "embrasure", continuing to denote the architectural feature of an opening or recess in a wall or fortification.

Similar spelling words for EMBRASURE

• embrace,
• embrangle,
• embarrass,
• empress,
• embrey,
• embree,
• embarrassed.

Plural form of EMBRASURE is EMBRASURES