Definition: A period of five years, often used in historical or formal contexts.

Example: The project is expected to be completed in a lustrum.

Definition: A belief or delusion that a person can transform into a wolf or has the characteristics of a wolf, often associated with folklore and magic.

Example: In many cultures, lycanthropy is seen as a curse or a magical ability.

Definition: A covered entrance to a churchyard that was used in the past as a place to rest a coffin during funerals.

Example: The lychgate provided a shaded area for mourners to gather before the burial.

Definition: To kill someone, especially by hanging, without a legal trial, often done by a mob.

Example: The mob decided to lynch the accused man without any evidence.

Definition: A violent act carried out by a group of people, often resulting in the death of an individual, typically without legal authority or due process.

Example: The history of lynching in the United States is a painful reminder of racial violence.

Definition: A heavy club used in medieval times for fighting, often with a spiked or flanged head, or a ceremonial staff that represents authority. It can also refer to a spice made from the outer covering of nutmeg.

Example: The knight wielded a mace during the battle, while the ceremonial mace was displayed at the opening of the legislative session.

Definition: To attack someone using a spray that causes irritation or pain, often used for self-defense.

Example: She decided to mace the attacker to escape safely.

Definition: Describing a structure that has openings or slots in its upper part, typically used for defense in castles or fortifications.

Example: The ancient castle was machicolated, allowing defenders to drop stones on attackers below.

Definition: To provide a structure with openings in the floor, typically used in castles for dropping objects on attackers below.

Example: The ancient castle was machicolated, allowing defenders to pour boiling oil on their enemies.

Definition: A structure at the top of a castle wall that has openings for dropping objects on enemies below, often supported by arches.

Example: The castle's machicolation allowed defenders to attack invaders from above.

Definition: A woman who is part of the wild and frenzied followers of the Greek god Dionysus, often associated with ecstatic celebrations and rituals.

Example: The maenad danced wildly under the moonlight, lost in her devotion to Dionysus.

Definition: Relating to the ancient Persian priests known as the Magi, who were often associated with magic and astrology.

Example: The magian traditions influenced many cultures with their mystical practices.

Definition: A member of a priestly class in ancient Persia, known for their role in the Zoroastrian religion.

Example: The magian performed rituals to honor the ancient gods of Persia.