What is "bacule"

Bacule \Bac"ule\, n. [F.] (Fort.) See Bascule.

n. In fortification, a kind of portcullis or gate, made like a pitfall, with a counterpoise, and supported by two large stakes.

In fortification, a bacule is a kind of portcullis or gate, made like a pit-fall, with a counterpoise, and supported by two great stakes. It is usually made before the corps de garde advancing near the gates.