What is "madrier"

Madrier \Ma*drier"\, n. [F., from Sp. madero, or Pg. madeiro, fr. Sp. madera wood for building, timber, Pg. madeira, L. materia stuff, materials, lumber. See Matter.] A thick plank, used for several mechanical purposes; especially:

1. A plank to receive the mouth of a petard, with which it is applied to anything intended to be broken down.

2. A plank or beam used for supporting the earth in mines or fortifications.

n. 1 A thick plank, used for several mechanical purposes. 2 # A plank to receive the mouth of a petard, with which it is applied to anything intended to be broken down. 3 # A plank or beam used for supporting the earth in mines or fortifications.