n. [ F. pétard, fr. péter to break wind, to crack, to explode, L. pedere, peditum. ] (Mil.) 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 It has been superseded. [ 1913 Webster ]