postern
/ˈpɒst(ə)n
/ /ˈpəʊst(ə)n/noun
A back or side entrance: [as modifier]: a small postern door...
- The main entrance was from the east, where the gate was protected by a massive stone tower; a smaller gate and two posterns gave access through the northern rampart.
- The hotel is described as ‘pretty appalling’ and its attempt to mimic the postern on the walls opposite has been called ‘deplorable’.
- I found another door into the Palace: a small postern gate around by the stables.
Origin
Middle English: from Old French posterne, alteration of posterle, from late Latin posterula, diminutive of posterus 'following'.