COFFER, noun

1. A chest or trunk; and as a chest is customarily used for keeping money, hence,

2. A chest of money; a treasure.

3. In architecture, a square depression or sinking in each interval between the modillions of the Corinthian cornice, ordinarily filled with a rose, a pomegranate or other enrichment.

4. In fortification, a hollow lodgment across a dry moat, from 6 to 7 feet deep and from 16 to 18 broad; the upper part made of pieces of timber, raised two feet above the level of the moat; which little elevation has hurdles laden with earth for its covering, and serves as a parapet with embrasures. It is raised by the besieged to repulse besiegers when they endeavor to pass the ditch.