Coffer

n. [Ger. & D. koffer, Fr. coffre, Pr., Sp., & Pg. cofre, It. cofano, from Lat. cophinus, Gr. κόφι-νος, basket.]

1Sense 1. A chest or trunk; especially, one used for keeping money or other valuables.

In ivory coffers I have stuffed my crowns. Shak.

2Sense 2. (Fig.) Treasure or funds.

He would discharge it without any burden to the queen's coffers, for honor sake. Bacon.

3Sense 3. (Arch.) A sunken panel in the ceiling of a vault or dome, or in the under side of a Corinthian or Composite cornice, ordinarily decorated with a rose, pomegranate, or other enrichment. Gwill.

4Sense 4. (Fort.) A hollow work across a dry moat, from six to seven feet deep, and from sixteen to eighteen broad, the upper part made of pieces of timber, raised two feet above the level of the moat; serving as a parapet with embrasures. It is raised by the besieged to repulse besiegers, when they endeavor to pass the ditch.

5Sense 5. A lock for receiving a barge. Simmonds.