brigandine

Definition

A coat of armor for the body, consisting of scales or plates, sometimes overlapping each other, generally of metal, sewn or riveted under or onto canvas or linen or other material.

Etymology

From Middle English brigandyn, brigantien, attested by 1456 (eventually displacing the slightly earlier synonym brigander), from Old French brigandine, from brigand + -ine.

Example Sentences

• "Harness the horses; and get up, ye horsemen, and stand forth with your helmets; furbish the spears, and put on the brigandines."
• "The brigandine takes its name from the troops, by which it was first worn, who were called brigans, they were a kind of light armed irregular foot, much addicted to plunder, whence it is probable the appellation of brigands was given to other freebooters."
• "Red-haired and freckled, he wore a studded brigantine, high boots, fingerless leather gloves, and a quiver on his back."