Herse

(14), n. [Fr. herse, harrow, portcullis, O. Fr. herce, L. Lat. hercia, hersia, from Lat. hirpex, gen. hirpicis, harrow, It. erpice. The L. Lat. hercia, or hersia, signifies also a kind of candlestick in the form of a harrow, having branches filled with lights, and placed at the head of graves or cenotaphs; whence herse came to be used for the grave, coffin, or chest containing the dead.]

1. (Fort.) (a.) A lattice or portcullis in the form of a harrow, set with iron spikes, hung by a rope fastened to an axis, and let down to obstruct passage through a gateway. (b.) A harrow used instead of a cheval-de-frise, laid in the way, in breaches, or in fords, with the points up, to obstruct or incommode the march of an enemy.
2. The same as HEARSE. See HEARSE.
3. A ceremonial or rehearsal. [Obs.] “The holy herse.” Spenser.