Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Barbacan
Bar′ba-can
,Noun.
See
Barbican
. {
, Bar′bi-can
,Bar′ba-can
}Noun.
[OE.
barbican
, barbecan
, F. barbacane
, LL. barbacana
, barbicana
, of uncertain origin: cf. Ar. barbakh
aqueduct, sewer. F. barbacane
also means, an opening to let out water, loophole.] 1.
(Fort.)
A tower or advanced work defending the entrance to a castle or city, as at a gate or bridge. It was often large and strong, having a ditch and drawbridge of its own.
2.
An opening in the wall of a fortress, through which missiles were discharged upon an enemy.