portcullis portcullis /pɔːrtˈkʌlɪs/

noun

1. Gate consisting of an iron or wooden grating that hangs in the entry to a castle or fortified town; can be lowered to prevent passage  ( portcullis )
   gate consisting of an iron or wooden grating that hangs in the entry to a castle or fortified town; can be lowered to prevent passage
    The castle's portcullis was lowered at nightfall, ensuring the safety of its inhabitants.
   The castle's portcullis was lowered at nightfall, ensuring the safety of its inhabitants.