bascule

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A counterbalanced structure having one end that rises as the other lowers.
  2. The portion of a breech-loading firearm that pivots open in order to allow access to the chamber.

Pronunciation

/ˈbæskjuːl/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-bascule.wav

Word forms

bascule bascules

Etymology

From French bascule, from earlier French bacule, from Old French bacul, from Old French battre + cul, from Latin battuō (“beat”) + cul (“bottom”).

Related words

Derived words

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