counterscarp

[ koun-ter-skahrp ]

noun

, Fortification.

1. the exterior slope or wall of the ditch of a fort, supporting the covered way.

counterscarp

/ ˈkaʊntəˌskɑːp /

noun

1. fortifications the outer side of the ditch of a fort Compare escarp

Word History and Origins

Origin of counterscarp¹

1565–75; counter- + scarp ( def ) (modeled on Italian contrascarpa ); replacing counterscarfe, with scarfe obsolete variant of scarp ( def )

Example Sentences

They consisted of a trench seven feet deep; the bottom, from scarp to counterscarp, six feet broad; the top thirteen feet broad.

From Project Gutenberg

Ravelin, rav′lin, n. a detached work with two embankments raised before the counterscarp.

From Project Gutenberg

At our feet the counterscarp which stayed the earth on the enemys side from filling up the moat.

From Project Gutenberg

The situation of the chapel prompted us to look over the ground for traces of a lunette bastion on the counterscarp.

From Project Gutenberg

This arrangement is frequently placed at the foot of the counterscarp.

From Project Gutenberg