Noun
The predecessor of the castle, having a raised earth mound (the motte) topped with a tower (or donjon), and a wooden ring fortification surrounding a courtyard (the bailey).
A form of argument and an informal fallacy where an arguer conflates two similar positions, one modest and easier to defend (the "motte") and one much more controversial (the "bailey"), by advancing the controversial position, but when challenged, insisting that they are only advancing the more modest position.
motte-and-bailey (plural mottes-and-baileys)
Alternative spelling of motte and bailey
motte-and-bailey
Although the motte is commonly associated with the bailey to form a motte-and-bailey castle, this was not always the case and there are instances where a motte existed on its own. Source: Internet
The work was completed by 1137. citation A motte-and-bailey castle which gives its name to the modern Castle Street was built in 1139. Source: Internet
The citadel is a so-called motte-and-bailey castle. citation Of Leiden's old city gates only two are left, the Zijlpoort and the Morspoort, both dating from the end of the 17th century. Source: Internet