Word Study
counterscarp
CIDE DICTIONARY
counterscarp, n. [Counter- + scarp: cf. F. contrescarpe.].
The exterior slope or wall of the ditch; -- sometimes, the whole covered way, beyond the ditch, with its parapet and glacis; as, the enemy have lodged themselves on the counterscarp. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
counterscarp, n. Mil. the outer wall or slope of a ditch in a fortification.
Etymology
F contrescarpe f. It. contrascarpa (as CONTRA-, SCARP)
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