lunette

• Nom masculin désignant en fortification un ouvrage extérieur en forme de demi-lune, et en architecture une baie ou une ouverture circulaire ou en arc pratiquée dans une coupole ou une voûte pour laisser passer la lumière.

A noun referring to a temporary fortification resembling a detached bastion, or an oval or circular opening in a dome or vault that allows light to enter.

1. FortificationC1formal

   A temporary defensive structure resembling a detached bastion, often used in military engineering.

   Lunette (fortification)

   • The army constructed a lunette to protect the flank of the main fort.
   • Engineers designed the lunette to withstand heavy artillery fire.
   • Historical maps show the lunette positioned near the eastern wall.

   Synonymeshalf-moon

2. Architectural featureC1formal

   An oval or circular opening in a dome or vault, designed to admit light.

   Lunette (architecture)

   • The lunette above the altar allowed soft light to illuminate the chapel.
   • Renaissance architects often included lunettes in their cathedral designs.
   • The vault's lunette was decorated with intricate stained glass.