Definition
abatis
noun
- a defensive barrier made of felled trees with sharpened branches pointing outward, used to obstruct an enemy's advance
Usage: military; also spelled 'abattis'
Examples
- The soldiers constructed an abatis around the fort to slow the enemy's approach.
- The defensive line was strengthened by an abatis of sharpened logs.
- During the siege, the regiment had to breach the abatis before reaching the main gate.
- The general ordered the troops to fell trees and create an abatis as quickly as possible.
- An abatis of branches and logs formed a formidable barrier against cavalry charges.