Meaning of the word ballista in English

What does ballista mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

ballista

US /bəˈlɪstə/
UK /bəˈlɪstə/

Noun

an ancient military engine for hurling stones or other missiles

Example:
The Roman army used a powerful ballista to breach the city walls.
Archaeologists discovered remnants of an ancient ballista at the siege site.