Catapult: A device used to launch projectiles over fortifications. Projectiles can vary; the Mongols were found of using dead bodies of soldier who'd died of diseases, in the hopes that the disease would spread.
Ballista: Basically a giant crossbow, but was capable of launching round projectiles, like stones. Used by the Romans.
Cannon: A large, gunpowder fuel projectile weapon that is capable of launching a large "cannon ball" at fortresses. Used on the battle field as well as during sieges. Able to be transported short distances thanks to large wheels; for longer distances, cannons were usually place in a wagon, ship, or train car.
Battering ram: A siege weapon designed to knock open gates or break through walls.
Siege tower: A wooden tower with wheels that allowed the acting army to go over the castle fortifications.
Trebuchet: A catapult with a throwing arm. It's what most people usually think of when somebody say "catapult".
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The Book of Fictional Writing 101
Non-FictionA handy lexicon of terms used in and applied to literary fiction and what they actually mean, as well as some ideas on how to improve your writing.
