bailey

/'beili/
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Thân thiện
bailey

The knight patrols the bailey of the castle.

Definition
  1. Noun:

    • The outer defensive wall of a castle: A "bailey" is the outer wall or series of walls that encloses the outer courtyard of a medieval castle, forming a key part of its fortifications.
    • The outer courtyard of a castle: A "bailey" also refers to the courtyard or ward itself, the open area enclosed by the outer defensive walls, often containing domestic buildings.
  2. Noun (Proper):

    • Nathaniel Bailey (died 1742): An English lexicographer known for his etymological dictionary, which was a significant reference for Samuel Johnson.
    • Pearl Bailey (1918-1990): A celebrated American singer and actress.
Examples
  • Noun (Castle Architecture):
    • The castle's bailey was filled with workshops and stables.
    • Attackers first had to breach the bailey before reaching the inner keep.
Advanced Usage
  • "Inner bailey" and "outer bailey": Terms used to describe different courtyards within a castle's complex defenses. The inner bailey is closer to the main keep, while the outer bailey is a larger, more exposed courtyard.
    • The outer bailey housed the garrison, while the lord's family lived in the inner bailey.
Variants and Related Words
  • Motte-and-bailey: A specific type of medieval castle design consisting of a motte (a raised earthwork with a keep) and one or more baileys.
    • The motte-and-bailey castle was a common design in Norman England.
Synonyms
  • Ward: Another term for the courtyard enclosed by castle walls.
  • Courtyard: A general term for an enclosed area, but specific to castles when used in a historical context.
Related Phrases
  • To hold the bailey: A phrase (less common) that can imply defending the outer works or a secondary position.
    • Their strategy was to hold the bailey as long as possible to protect the inner keep.
bailey

The knight patrols the bailey of the castle.

Noun
  1. the outer defensive wall that surrounds the outer courtyard of a castle
  2. the outer courtyard of a castle
  3. English lexicographer who was the first to treat etymology consistently; his work was used as a reference by Samuel Johnson (died in 1742)
  4. United States singer (1918-1990)