Bailey

usgb/ˈbeɪli/
noun

The enclosed court of a castle.

The knights gathered in the bailey of the castle.
Visual representation of "bailey" - The enclosed court of a castle

Often appears as...

  • castle bailey
  • enclosed bailey

Usage tips

Historical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "bailey"
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Medieval Castles

Understand 'bailey' as part of medieval castle architecture, often near a keep.

Illustration for Medieval Castles
The festival took place in the castle's bailey.
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Enclosed Space

A bailey is a space surrounded by protective walls, not just any courtyard.

Illustration for Enclosed Space
They secured the castle's bailey against invaders.
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Historical Vocabulary

'Bailey' for castle courts is old-fashioned; use it for historical or fantasy settings.

Illustration for Historical Vocabulary
The blacksmith’s shop was in the lower bailey.
Visual representation of the word "Bailey"

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