'Demilune' definitions:

Definition of 'Demilune'

From: GCIDE
  • Demilune \Dem"i*lune`\, n. [F. demi- lune.]
  • 1. (Fort.) A work constructed beyond the main ditch of a fortress, and in front of the curtain between two bastions, intended to defend the curtain; a ravelin. See Ravelin. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Physiol.) A crescentic mass of granular protoplasm present in the salivary glands. [1913 Webster]
  • Note: Each crescent is made of polyhedral cells which under some circumstances are supposed to give rise to new salivary cells. [1913 Webster]

Definition of 'demilune'

From: GCIDE
  • Ravelin \Rave"lin\ (r[a^]v"l[i^]n; 277), n. [F.; cf. Sp. rebellin, It. revellino, rivellino; perhaps fr. L. re- again + vallum wall.] (Fort.) A detached work with two embankments which make a salient angle. It is raised before the curtain on the counterscarp of the place. Formerly called demilune and half-moon. [1913 Webster]