Battering Ram

Definition Meaning

A battering ram is a heavy object, often a large log or beam, used historically to break through gates, doors, or walls during sieges. It is typically carried or swung by a group of people to deliver forceful impacts.

In modern contexts, the term is sometimes used metaphorically to describe a situation where one party uses a second party (ideologically or numerically) as a tool or utility to forcefully advance a specific agenda or break through resistance.

Part of Speech

• noun

Usage Examples

• The medieval army used a battering ram to break through the castle gates during the siege.
• In the debate, the politician used his supporters as a battering ram to push through his controversial policy, despite widespread opposition.
• The activists became a battering ram for the movement, breaking down institutional barriers to achieve their goals.

Synonyms

• siege engine
• ram
• force tool

Antonyms

• diplomacy
• negotiation

Related Words

• siege
• force
• strategy

Disambiguating Definition

A battering ram is both a historical siege weapon and a metaphorical term describing the use of force or a secondary party to overcome obstacles or resistance, often in a strategic or ideological context.

Word History

The battering ram has been used since ancient times as a siege weapon, with early examples dating back to Assyrian and Roman warfare. It was designed to break through fortified structures by delivering concentrated force.

In modern usage, the term has evolved into a metaphor for any forceful or strategic effort to overcome resistance, often involving the use of a secondary party or group to achieve a specific objective.

Word Illustration

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