Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
Machicolation \Mach`i*co*la"tion\, n. [Cf. LL. machicolamentum,
machacolladura, F. m[^a]chicolis, m[^a]checoulis; perh. fr.
F. m[`e]che match, combustible matter + OF. coulis, couleis,
flowing, fr. OF. & F. couler to flow. Cf. {Match} for making
fire, and {Cullis}.]
1. (Mil. Arch.) An opening between the corbels which support
a projecting parapet, or in the floor of a gallery or the
roof of a portal, shooting or dropping missiles upen
assailants attacking the base of the walls. Also, the
construction of such defenses, in general, when of this
character. See Illusts. of {Battlement} and {Castle}.
2. The act of discharging missiles or pouring burning or
melted substances upon assailants through such apertures.
Source : WordNet®
machicolation
n : a projecting parapet supported by corbels on a medieval
castle; has openings through which stones or boiling
water could be dropped on an enemy