Epaulment

An embankment of earth erected for the sole purpose of providing shelter from hostile small arms and artillery fire. Although similar to a parapet or breastwork, the profile of an epaulment did not include any features that were specifically designed to allow troops sheltered behind it to either defend it with their fire or repel a close assault. Epaulments were generally attached to the flanks of the parapets of siege batteries and could be used to cover infantry and cavalry placed in reserve positions in rear of lines with intervals.

January, 2003