breastplate
breastplate Lexical Profile
breastplate Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A piece of armor made of metal or hardened leather worn over the torso to protect the chest in battle.
"The museum exhibit featured a finely engraved bronze breastplate dating back to the fourth century BC."
An ornamental, jewel-set vestment or plaque worn on the chest for ceremonial or religious purposes, especially by the Jewish high priest in antiquity.
"According to biblical tradition, the ceremonial breastplate was set with twelve precious stones representing the tribes of Israel."
A strap of leather that runs across a horse's chest and attaches to the saddle to prevent it from sliding backward.
"Before beginning the steep cross-country course, the rider adjusted the leather breastplate to keep the saddle secure."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in Middle English as a compound of 'breast' (from Old English 'breost') and 'plate' (from Old French 'plate', meaning a flat piece of metal).