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Definition of parapet - 3 dictionary results

par⋅a⋅pet

  [par-uh-pit, -pet]
Use parapet in a Sentence
–noun
1. Fortification.
a. a defensive wall or elevation, as of earth or stone, in a fortification.
b. an elevation raised above the main wall or rampart of a permanent fortification.
2. any low protective wall or barrier at the edge of a balcony, roof, bridge, or the like.
Origin:
1575–85; < It parapetto, equiv. to para- para- 2 + petto chest, breast < L pectus

Related forms:
par⋅a⋅pet⋅ed, adjective
par⋅a⋅pet⋅less, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To parapet
par·a·pet   (pār'ə-pĭt, -pět')   
n.  

  1. A low protective wall or railing along the edge of a raised structure such as a roof or balcony.

  2. An earthen or stone embankment protecting soldiers from enemy fire. See Synonyms at bulwark.


[French, from Italian parapetto : parare, to shield; see parasol + petto, chest (from Latin pectus).]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Word Origin & History

parapet 
1590, from M.Fr. parapet "breastwork," from It. parapetto, from para- "defense" (from L. parare "prepare") + petto "breast," from L. pectus (see pectoral).
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2001 Douglas Harper
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