How Do You Spell GLACIS?

Pronunciation: [ɡlˈe͡ɪsɪs] (IPA)

Glacis is a term used in the field of fortifications that refers to a graduated slope or incline leading up to a defensive wall. The phonetic transcription of this word in IPA is /ˈɡleɪsɪs/. The spelling of the word can be explained by breaking it down into its syllables, with the emphasis placed on the first syllable. The 'gl' at the beginning of the word is pronounced with a hard 'g' sound, while the '-cis' ending is pronounced with a soft 's' sound.

GLACIS Meaning and Definition

1. Glacis is a noun that refers to a slope or an incline that is created artificially or naturally in order to provide protection or defense for a fortress or a defensive structure. It is derived from the French word "glacier," meaning to slide or slip, indicating the characteristic smoothness of the slope.

   In military fortifications, a glacis is typically constructed as a gently sloping embankment in front of the main defensive walls or at the base of a rampart. The purpose of a glacis is to reduce the effectiveness of enemy artillery by forcing projectiles to ricochet off the slope and lose their impact. Additionally, it tends to impede the advancement of troops, making it more challenging for them to reach and breach the fortified walls.

   The dimensions and features of a glacis may vary depending on the specific fortification and surrounding terrain. It is often constructed using earthworks, which involve moving and reshaping the natural landscape to create the desired slope. In some cases, glacis can also be reinforced with other materials, such as stone, to enhance its defensive capabilities.

   Outside of military contexts, glacis can also be used to refer to natural geological formations, such as gently sloping areas of land or hillsides that display a similarly smooth profile. This usage highlights the resemblance between natural and artificial slopes designed for protection.

2. A gentle slope; a smooth sloping bank; in fort., a bank of earth gently sloping towards the country.

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

Common Misspellings for GLACIS

• flacis
• vlacis
• hlacis
• ylacis
• tlacis
• gkacis
• gpacis
• goacis
• glzcis
• glscis
• glwcis
• glqcis
• glaxis
• glafis
• gladis
• glacus
• glacjs
• glacos
• glac9s

Etymology of GLACIS

The word "glacis" has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin term "glacies", which means "ice". In military terms, a glacis refers to a gently sloping embankment or artificial bank made of earth or stones in front of a fortification or trench. The term was first recorded in English in the early 19th century, borrowed from French where it had been used in the military context since the 18th century.

Similar spelling words for GLACIS

• glass,
• laces,
• glazes,
• glacier,
• glances.

Plural form of GLACIS is GLACIS