What is "orillon"

Orillon \O*ril"lon\, n. [F., lit., a little ear, from oreille an ear, fr. L. oricula, auricula, dim. of auris an ear. See Ear.] (Fort.) A semicircular projection made at the shoulder of a bastion for the purpose of covering the retired flank, -- found in old fortresses.

n. A semicircular projection made at the shoulder of a bastion for the purpose of covering the retired flank, found in old fortresses.

An orillon, also known as an orillion, is an architectural element of a military fortification. The ear-shaped projection of masonry provided defense for guns and soldiers at the flank of a bastion. However, an orillon could also shield a city gate.