Noun
The word is derived from ballista
The difference between "machines" and "engines" is obviously this, that machines need more workmen and greater power to make them take effect, as for instance ballistae and the beams of presses. Engines, on the other hand, accomplish their purpose at the intelligent touch of a single workman,... Vitruvius
History A Helepolis -like Siege Engine showing ballistae, stairs and movement capstan Modern armoured fighting vehicles are the realization of an ancient concept: that of providing troops with mobile protection and suppressive firepower. Source: Internet
Early Roman ballistae The early Roman ballistae were made of wood, and held together with iron plates around the frames and iron nails in the stand. Source: Internet
It is from the time of the Roman Empire that many of the archaeological finds of ballistae date. Source: Internet
The largest ballistae of the 4th century could throw a dart further than 1200 yards (1,100 m). Source: Internet
The mod featured appropriate objects used in the single-player portion of the game, namely catapults and ballistae. Source: Internet