barbacan

Bar"ba*can, n. Defn: See Barbican. Bar"bi*can, Bar"ba*can, n. Etym: [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.

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