herse

noun2

1. •
   A kind of gate or portcullis, having iron bars, like a harrow, studded with iron spikes, hung above gateways so that it may be quickly lowered to impede the advance of an enemy.

   • In the south aisle, on a slab raised on four low shafts and covered by an iron herse, is a fine coloured recumbent effigy of a bishop — 1848
2. •
   (no longer used) A funeral ceremony.

   • Dido, my deare, alas! Dead, and lyeth wrapt in lead. O heavie herse! — 1579