Wiktionary
motte and bailey
n. The predecessor of the castle, having a raised earth mound (the motte) topped with a tower (or donjon), and a wooden ring fortification surrounding a courtyard (the bailey).
Usage examples of "motte and bailey".
And he told them the building of the motte and bailey at Anwealda's holding would bring them more safety by giving Rufus peaceful access through the Vale.
Few enemies could hope to storm the motte and bailey arrangement of this castle protected by these veterans—.
And yet East Borders itself was a simple motte and bailey that looked modest, almost meager compared to the lofty battlements and the four towers of Castle Nidus.