Definitions for "Ravelin"
Keywords:  outwork, salient, ditch, lune, fort
A detached work with two embankments which make a salient angle. It is raised before the curtain on the counterscarp of the place. Formerly called demilune and half-moon.
A large V-shaped outwork (usually outside the moat/ditch) that protects the gate or other weak point of a fort or castle.
An outwork consisting of two faces forming a salient angle at the front and a flank angle to the rear which was usually closed at the gorge. Ravelins were separated from the main body of the place by ditches and functioned to protect curtains.