/ · 1894 Brewer’s · B · Barbican (The) or Barbacan
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The outwork intended to defend the draw-bridge in a fortified town or castle (French, barbacane). Also an opening or loophole in the wall of a fortress, through which guns may be fired.
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Entry taken from Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, edited by the Rev. E. Cobham Brewer, LL.D. and revised in 1895.