POSTERN DOORS Meaning and
Definition
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Postern doors are small, secondary entrances or exits that are typically discreet and intentionally hidden to provide an alternative means of ingress or egress. This term derives from the Middle English word "posterne," which means a back or secondary gate. Postern doors are often found in defensive structures such as castles, fortresses, or walled cities, where their purpose is to allow quieter and less conspicuous movement in or out, particularly during times of siege or conflict.
These doors are designed to be inconspicuous, often tucked away in discreet locations such as the rear or sides of a fortification. They may be constructed with smaller dimensions compared to the main entrance, making them easier to defend and less likely to attract unwanted attention. Postern doors frequently have additional security features, such as hidden or fortified hinges, lack of external doorknobs or handles, and mechanisms for easy locking and bolting.
While historically associated with military fortifications, postern doors can also be found in other architectural contexts, such as mansions or stately homes. In these cases, they may be used for quick access between interconnected rooms or to provide a private entrance for the residents.
Overall, postern doors serve as discreet alternate entrances or exits that enable secure and covert movement, whether for defensive purposes or personal convenience.
Common Misspellings for POSTERN DOORS
- oostern doors
- lostern doors
- -ostern doors
- 0ostern doors
- pistern doors
- pkstern doors
- plstern doors
- ppstern doors
- p0stern doors
- p9stern doors
- poatern doors
- poztern doors
- poxtern doors
- podtern doors
- poetern doors
- powtern doors
- posrern doors
- posfern doors
- posgern doors
- posyern doors
Etymology of POSTERN DOORS
The word "postern" comes from Middle English "posterne", which in turn is derived from Old French "posterne" or "posterle". The Old French term is believed to have been borrowed from Late Latin "posterula", a diminutive form of "posterior", meaning "rear" or "back".
"Postern doors" specifically refer to a small secondary or hidden door in a fortification or building, typically situated at the rear or the side. These doors were often used for clandestine entry or exit, or as a discreet passage for authorized individuals. The use of "doors" in the term "postern doors" simply signifies multiple posterns within a structure.
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