The word "fraise" is spelled with the phonetic transcription /fʁɛz/. This means that it is pronounced as "frez" with a silent "e". The sound "f" is followed by the vowel sound "ɛ" which is pronounced as "eh". The final sound "z" follows a consonant cluster "s" which is silent, but changes the pronunciation of the "z" sound from /z/ to /s/. "Fraise" is a French word that means "strawberry", but it can also refer to a type of military fortification.
A "fraise" is a noun that describes a type of protective fortification or military barrier constructed during times of war or conflict. Specifically, it refers to an external layer or wall built around a defensive structure, such as a fortress, fortification, or fortified city, to enhance their defensive capabilities.
The term "fraise" comes from the French word "fraiser," which means "to roughen" or "to groove." This name is fitting as a "fraise" typically consists of wooden or metal stakes or pickets that are sharpened or grooved at the top. These sharpened stakes are arranged in a circular or sloping pattern, either horizontally or vertically, forming a protective barrier that impedes enemy troops or siege engines from easily breaching or scaling the fortification.
Historically, fraises were popular in medieval Europe during the period of castle building and siege warfare. They were often constructed on the outer edges or on top of existing defensive walls to augment their strength and to deter enemy forces. Additionally, fraises were also sometimes used to reinforce the defenses of trenches or other earthworks during military engagements.
In modern times, the term "fraise" is occasionally used metaphorically to describe any structure or barrier designed to provide protection, hinder progress, or thwart attacks. This usage is mostly seen in the fields of engineering, architecture, and military strategy.
An instrument in the shape of a hemispherical button with cutting edges, used to enlarge a trephine opening in the skull or to cut osteoplastic flaps; the smooth convexity of the button prevents injury to the dura.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In mil., a defence consisting of pointed iron or wooden spikes in a horizontal or inclined position.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "fraise" comes from the Old French term "frese", which was derived from the Latin word "frutex". In Latin, "frutex" referred to a shrub or a small tree. Over time, the word evolved in Old French to "frese" or "fresle", which eventually became "fraise" in Modern French. The term "fraise" in French can have various meanings, including "strawberry", "ruff" (a type of collar), or "cheval-de-frise" (a defensive device used in warfare).