Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.Join Britannica's Publishing Partner Program and our community of experts to gain a global audience for your work!
Battering ram, ancient and medieval weapon consisting of a heavy timber, typically with a metal knob or point at the front. Such devices were used to batter down the gates or walls of a besieged city or castle. The ram itself, usually suspended by ropes from the roof of a movable shed, was swung back and forth by its operators against the besieged structure. The roof of the shed was usually covered with animal skins to protect the weapon’s operators from bombardment with stones or fiery materials.
Learn More in these related Britannica articles:
military technology: Siege weaponsBattering rams were capable of bringing down sections of wall, given sufficient time, manpower, and determination. Large battering rams were mounted on wheels and were covered by a mobile shed for protection from defensive fire.…
WeaponWeapon, an instrument used in combat for the purpose of killing, injuring, or defeating an enemy. A weapon may be a shock weapon, held in the hands, such as the club, mace, or sword. It may also be a missile weapon, operated by muscle power (as with the javelin, sling, and bow and arrow),…
Military technologyMilitary technology, range of weapons, equipment, structures, and vehicles used specifically for the purpose of warfare. It includes the knowledge required to construct such technology, to employ it in combat, and to repair and replenish it. The technology of war may be divided into five…