noun
rare, historicalA defensive fortification at the entrance to the harbour at Cadiz (originally consisting of a blockhouse erected on a point of sand); a similar fortification elsewhere.
Origin
Early 18th century; earliest use found in The London Gazette. From el Puntal, the name of a defensive fortification at the entrance to the harbour at Cadiz, probably from Spanish el, definite article + puntal point of land from punta point + -al.
Are You Learning English? Here Are Our Top English Tips