cheval-de-frise

(s̸hə val′ də frēz′)

an obstacle, usually a piece of wood with projecting spikes, formerly used to hinder enemy horsemen
a row of spikes or jagged glass set into the masonry on top of a wall to prevent escape or trespassing

Origin: Fr < cheval, a horse + de, of + Frise, Friesland: first used by Frisians, who lacked cavalry, against Spaniards

See cheval-de-frise in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. che·vaux-de-frise (shə-vōˌ-)

An obstacle composed of barbed wire or spikes attached to a wooden frame, used to block enemy advancement.
An obstacle made of jagged glass or spikes set into masonry on top of a wall.

Origin:

Origin: French, Frisian horse (from its use in Friesland to compensate for a lack of cavalry)

Origin: : cheval, horse

Origin: + de, of

Origin: + Frise, Friesland

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