# drawbridge

/ˈdɹɔˌbɹɪdʒ/ (US) · /dɹˈɔːbɹɪdʒ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/drawbridge
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a bridge that can be raised or lowered to let people cross or to block the way. You see it at old castles or over water where boats need to pass.

For teachers: a movable bridge hinged at one end that can be raised to block passage or lowered to allow crossing. Typically associated with medieval fortifications and modern waterways where boat traffic requires clearance.

## Examples

- The castle guards raise the drawbridge every night.
- The tour guide waits until the boat passes before lowering the drawbridge for visitors to enter the fort.
- At dusk the old drawbridge creaks down over the moat, its chains groaning as the village children race across to reach the castle grounds before closing time.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.