Portcullis

Part of speech: noun (n.)

1. A grating of iron or of timbers pointed with iron, hung over the gateway of a fortress, to be let down to prevent the entrance of an enemy. "Let the portcullis fall." Sir W. Scott. She . . . the huge portcullis high updrew. Milton.

2. An English coin of the reign of Elizabeth, struck for the use of the East India Company; -- so called from its bearing the figure of a portcullis on the reverse.

Part of speech: verb (v.)

To obstruct with, or as with, a portcullis; to shut; to bar. [R.] Shak.