Definition

Noun: 1. A small, often concealed, gate or door at the back or side of a fortification, castle, or other fortified structure. It is typically used as a secondary or private entrance/exit, distinct from the main gate.

Usage

The word "postern" is used specifically in historical or architectural contexts to describe a secondary, often less obvious, entrance in a defensive wall. It implies a degree of secrecy or utility for discreet movement.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The castle's postern gate allowed messengers to come and go unseen by the main army.
  • They escaped the besieged city through a hidden postern in the city wall.
  • Archaeologists discovered the remains of a postern leading from the keep to the outer bailey.

Advanced Usage

• "Postern gate": This is a common collocation that reinforces the meaning, though "postern" alone is sufficient.
  • The defenders used the postern gate to launch a surprise attack.

Variants and Related Words

• Sally port: A related term for a secure, controlled gate within a fortification, often used for sorties. While similar, a sally port is specifically for offensive movements, whereas a postern is a general secondary gate.
• Wicket gate: A small door set within a larger gate. This is a functional synonym but is not exclusive to fortifications.

Synonyms

• Back gate
• Secondary gate
• Side door (in a fortified context)

Antonyms

• Main gate
• Portcullis (a heavy fortified main gate)
• Gateway

Related Phrases

• "By the postern": Indicating an action taken via the postern gate.
  • The king entered the castle by the postern to avoid the crowds.

Noun

1. a small gate in the rear of a fort or castle