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escarp

escarp

9.9
A steep man-made slope in front of a fort's walls that makes attack harder
  • noun
  • /ɪˈskɑrp/
  • Specialized
translation icon : escarpe
  • The engineer explained how the escarp was constructed to strengthen the fortress's defenses.

Examples

  • The defenders used the escarp to hinder the progress of attackers.

  • Remnants of the old escarp can still be seen surrounding the ancient walls.

  • The soldiers climbed the escarp to reach the fortress.

  • We need to reinforce the escarp for better defense.

  • The defenders used the escarp to hinder the progress of attackers.

  • Remnants of the old escarp can still be seen surrounding the ancient walls.

  • The engineer explained how the escarp was constructed to strengthen the fortress's defenses.

Synonyms

escarpment
vsescarp
  • Specialized
9.4

A steep man-made slope in front of a fort to stop attackers

is the same defensive slope idea but differs by word form
protective embankment
vsescarp
  • Specialized
7.5

A steep slope in front of a fort made by people that protects it from attack

is the same defensive structure but highlights built earth as barrier
scarp
vsescarp
  • Specialized
9.9

A steep built slope or wall in front of a fort to stop attackers

is specifically the steep slope form rather than a vertical wall
glacis
vsescarp
  • Specialized
9.9

A gentle open slope in front of a fort that exposes attackers to defenders' fire

is much steeper rather than a gentle forward slope

How Steep

cliff
438 1.0
escarp
  • Specialized
9.9
slope
101 1.4

Surface Forms

escarp singular
escarps plural

Etymology

Escarp is related to escarpment and comes from old French words that meant 'to cut off' or a 'steep face', so imagine the ground sharply 'cut away' in front of a wall. That's why an escarp is a steep slope built before a fortress to make attack harder.