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American Dictionary of the English Language

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Hurdle


HUR'DLE, noun [Latin crates.]

1. A texture of twigs, osiers or sticks; a crate of various forms, according to its destination. The English give this name to a sled or crate on which criminals are drawn to the place of execution. In this sense, it is not used in America.

2. In fortification, a collection of twigs or sticks interwoven closely and sustained by long stakes. It is made in the figure of a long square, five or six feet by three and a half. Hurdles serve to render works firm, or to cover traverses and lodgments for the defense of workmen against fire-works or stones.

3. In husbandry, a frame of split timber or sticks wattled together, serving for gates, inclosures, etc.