A case containing powder to be exploded, esp. a conical or cylindrical case of metal filled with powder and attached to a plank, to be exploded against and break down gates, barricades, drawbridges, etc. It has been superseded.
an explosive device, formerly used in warfare to blow in a door or gate, form a break in a wall, etc.; hoist by or with one's own petard - caught by the very device one had contrived to hurt another. Scene 11