Ma*drier" (?), n. [F., from Sp. madero, or Pg. madeiro, fr. Sp. madera wood for building, timber, Pg. madeira, L. materia stuff, materials, lumber. See Matter.]
A thick plank, used for several mechanical purposes
; especially: (a)
A plank to receive the mouth of a petard, with which it is applied to anything intended to be broken down.
(b)
A plank or beam used for supporting the earth in mines or fortifications.
© Webster 1913.