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Martello

Pronunciation: /mɑːˈtɛləʊ/

(also Martello tower)

Definition of Martello

noun (plural Martellos)

any of numerous small circular forts that were erected for defence purposes along the coasts of Britain during the Napoleonic Wars.

Origin:

alteration (by association with Italian martello 'hammer') of Cape Mortella in Corsica, where such a tower proved difficult for the English to capture in 1794