Defn: A thick plank, used for several mechanical purposes; especially: (a) A plank to receive the mouth of a petard, with which it is applied to anything intended to be broken down. (b) A plank or beam used for supporting the earth in mines or fortifications.
MADRIGAL Mad"ri*gal, n. Etym: [It. madrigale, OIt. madriale, mandriale (cf. LL. matriale); of uncertain origin, possibly fr. It mandra flock, L. mandra stall, herd of cattle, Gr. madrigal, originally, a pastoral song.]
1. A little amorous poem, sometimes called a pastoral poem, containing some tender and delicate, though simple, thought. Whose artful strains have oft delayed The huddling brook to hear his madrigal. Milton.
2. (Mus.)
Defn: An unaccompanied polyphonic song, in four, five, or more parts, set to secular words, but full of counterpoint and imitation, and adhering to the old church modes. Unlike the freer glee, it is best sung with several voices on a part. See Glee.
MADRIGALER
Mad"ri*gal*er, n.
Defn: A madrigalist.
MADRIGALIST
Mad"ri*gal*ist, n.
Defn: A composer of madrigals.
MADRILENIAN
Mad`ri*le"ni*an, a. Etym: [Sp. Madrileno.]