竪たて堀ぼり

noun

vertical trench; ascending trench; slope trench

A trench or pathway cut into a natural slope, often used in fortifications or siege works. Contrasts with 横堀 (よこぼり), a horizontal trench.

See also: 横堀 (よこぼり)

• 城しろの防ぼう御ぎょのために、斜しゃ面めんに竪たて堀ぼりが掘ほられた。

  A vertical trench was dug into the slope for the castle's defense.

• 竪たて堀ぼりは攻せめ手ての移い動どうを妨さまたげる役やく割わりを果はたした。

  The ascending trench served to hinder the movement of attackers.