POSTERN Meaning and
Definition
-
Postern is a noun that refers to a small, secondary or less conspicuous entrance or gate, typically found at the rear or sides of a building, fortification, or town. It is specifically designed to provide access for limited purposes such as surveillance, quick exits or secret movements.
The term postern is derived from the Old English word "porstige," which means "a small door or gate." Posterns are typically smaller in size compared to the main entrance and are strategically placed to ensure more discreet and controlled access. They are often used to bypass heavily guarded entrances during emergency situations or for clandestine operations. Due to their positioning, they are advantageous for military purposes as a route for surprise attacks or covert operations, as they are less likely to be heavily defended or monitored.
Architecturally, posterns can be simple, narrow doorways allowing only one person to pass through at a time, or they may be equipped with elaborate features such as hidden passages, secret compartments, or concealed mechanisms for added security. Historically, posterns were commonly found in castles, forts, and city walls, allowing defenders or residents to escape discreetly or to launch surprise attacks against invaders.
Overall, posterns play a significant role in providing inconspicuous access or defense in various structures, allowing for secrecy, maneuverability, or escape when the situation demands.
-
• Any small door or gate; a private entrance; in fort., a vaulted passage constructed under the mass of the parapet and through the rampart.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for POSTERN
- oostern
- lostern
- -ostern
- 0ostern
- pkstern
- plstern
- ppstern
- p0stern
- p9stern
- poatern
- poztern
- poxtern
- podtern
- poetern
- powtern
- posrern
- posfern
- posgern
- posyern
Etymology of POSTERN
The word "postern" originates from the Old French term "posterne", which can be traced back to the Latin word "posterula". In Latin, "posterula" referred to a small rear or side gate, an alteration of "posterus" meaning "coming after" or "following". The idea of a rear or side entrance evolved into the English word "postern", which also denotes a discreet or hidden entrance.
Similar spelling words for POSTERN
- post horn,
- posture,
- postural,
- poster,
- postwar,
- pasternak,
- pastern,
- posturing,
- pestering,
- post road,
- pester,
- posterity,
- poster boy,
- posterior,
- paster.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
