Brewer's: Citadel

(A), in fortification, a small strong fort, constructed either within the place fortified, or on the most inaccessible spot of its general outline; to give refuge for the garrison, that it may prolong the defence after the place has fallen, or to hold out for the best terms of capitulation. Citadels generally command the interior of the place, and are useful, therefore, for overawing a population which might otherwise strive to shorten a siege. (French, citadelle; Italian, citadella, a little city.)

Related Content Allusions Foreign Words and Phrases Latin and Greek Word Elements Names: Their Origins and Meanings Old Testament Names Mythology Ancient Greek Literature & Mythology The Bible (King James version) The Koran (translation by J. M. Rodwell) Shakespeare's Plays Tales from Shakespeare (Charles and Mary Lamb) Frequently Misspelled Words Frequently Mispronounced Words Easily Confused Words Writing & Language