Barbican

Pronunciation: /ˈbɑːrbɪkən/

Definitions of barbican

noun a fortified outpost or gateway, usually at the entrance of a castle or walled city

Example Sentences

A1 The barbican was built to protect the castle from enemy attacks.

A2 Visitors can explore the ancient barbican and learn about its history.

B1 The barbican was an important defensive structure in medieval times.

B2 The barbican's strategic location made it a key stronghold during battles.

C1 The intricate design of the barbican showcases the craftsmanship of the era.

C2 The barbican's imposing presence served as a deterrent to potential invaders.

Examples of barbican in a Sentence

formal The Barbican Centre is a major performing arts venue in London.

informal Let's meet at the Barbican for the concert tonight.

slang I love hanging out at the Barbican, it's so chill.

figurative Her words were like barbican, sharp and cutting.

Grammatical Forms of barbican

• past tense: barbicaned
• plural: barbicans
• comparative: more barbican
• superlative: most barbican
• present tense: barbicans
• future tense: will barbican
• perfect tense: have barbicaned
• continuous tense: is barbicaning
• singular: barbican
• positive degree: barbican
• infinitive: to barbican
• gerund: barbicaning
• participle: barbicaned

Origin and Evolution of barbican

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Old French and Medieval Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'barbican' originated from the Old French word 'barbacane' which was derived from the Medieval Latin 'barbacana' or 'barbecana'.

Evolution of the word: Originally referring to an outer fortification to protect a gate or drawbridge, the meaning of 'barbican' has evolved to also include any fortified outpost or defensive structure.