an Old World, insect-eating mammal of the genus Erinaceus, esp. E. europaeus, having spiny hairs on the back and sides.
2.
the porcupine.
3.
Military.
a.
a portable obstacle made of crossed logs in the shape of an hourglass, usually laced with barbed wire.
b.
an obstructive device consisting of steel bars, angle irons, etc., usually embedded in concrete, designed to damage and impede the boats and tanks of a landing force on a beach.
Any of several small insectivorous mammals of the family Erinaceidae of Europe, Africa, and Asia, having the back covered with dense erectile spines and characteristically rolling into a ball for protection.
Any of several spiny animals, such as the porcupine, that are similar to the hedgehog.
A well fortified military position.
An antisubmarine weapon consisting of several rows of mortar-like dischargers positioned to fire in a circular pattern ahead of a ship.
An obstacle used against tanks and landing craft, consisting of three crossed iron bars welded or bolted together.