Definition of mottes:
(n) :
A surname.
(n) :
A raised earth mound, often topped with a wooden or stone structure and surrounded with a ditch.
(n) :
An argument which is uncontroversial and easy to defend (in the context of a motte and bailey fallacy).
(n) :
Alternative form of mott. [(Texas) A copse or small grove of trees, especially live oak or elm.]