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.