What does ravelin mean?
A ravelin is a detached defensive structure that projects outward from the main line of a fortification. Its two angled flanks permit defenders to fire along the approaches to the fortress, exposing attackers to crossfire and making it harder for them to reach the gates or walls. Ravelins were important elements of bastioned fortifications developed during the gunpowder era, often protected by a ditch and connected to the main work by a covered passage or bridge. Although closely related in purpose to other defensive outworks, a ravelin is distinguished by its prominent outward projection and flanking position. The word now appears mainly in military history, architecture, archaeology, and the preservation or study of historic forts.
nounA detached, two-sided defensive work projecting outward from a fortification, with flanks designed to allow defenders to fire along the approaches to the main walls.
- A projecting defensive work forming part of a fortification.
"The advancing troops came under fire from the ravelin guarding the entrance to the fortress."
"The ravelin protected the drawbridge by exposing the approach to flanking fire."
"A ditch divided the ravelin from the fortress's main defensive enclosure."
The plural is used when referring to multiple defensive works of this kind.
"Two ravelins guarded the approaches to the fortified gateway."
A ravelin sticks out like a defensive spur, enabling its defenders to sweep fire across the ground before an enemy reaches the main walls.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does ravelin come from?
The word entered English through French ravelin, from the Italian architectural term ravellino. The Italian word was historically associated with a form of battering ram, but the specific development of its military architectural meaning is not entirely certain. Its cognate ravelino remains an Italian term for a projecting fortification resembling a ravelin.
How ravelin is actually used
This is primarily a term in military architecture and historical fortification. In modern historical study, it may refer either to a complete surviving structure or to the position formerly occupied by one.
Easily confused with ravelin
A ravelin is a projecting fortification, whereas to ravel means to become frayed or entangled.