hauberk

Definition

A coat of mail; especially, the long coat of mail of the European Middle Ages, as contrasted with the habergeon, which is shorter and sometimes sleeveless.

Etymology

From Middle English hauberk, from Old French hauberc, from Frankish *halsaberg (“neck-cover”).

Example Sentences

• "The hauberk was a complete covering of mail from head to foot. It consisted of a hood, joined to a jacket with sleeves, breeches, stockings and shoes of double chain mail, to which were added gauntlets of the same construction."
• "Ursula wore that day a hauberk under her gown, and was helmed with a sallet; and because of her armour she rode upon a little horse."
• "The hauberk was to the Norman what the byrnie was to the Saxon, the chief method of bodily defence."