panoply

[ pan-uh-plee ]

noun

, plural pan·o·plies.

1. a wide-ranging and impressive array or display:

   the dazzling panoply of the maharaja's procession; the panoply of European history.

2. a complete suit of armor.
3. a protective covering.
4. full ceremonial attire or paraphernalia; special dress and equipment.

panoply

/ ˈpænəplɪ /

noun

1. a complete or magnificent array
2. the entire equipment of a warrior

Derived Forms

• ˈpanoplied, adjective

Other Words From

• pano·plied adjective
• un·pano·plied adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of panoply¹

1570–80; < Greek panoplía full complement of arms and armor, equivalent to pan- pan- + ( h ) ópl ( a ) arms, armor ( hoplite ) + -ia -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of panoply¹

C17: via French from Greek panoplia complete armour, from pan- + hopla armour, pl of hoplon tool

Example Sentences

The diversity of lifestyles has brought a panoply of body and mouth shapes and sizes.

From Science Magazine

Even in fiery études, he is calm as he exposes the panoply of voices that emerge from just two hands.

From New York Times

And, given the panoply of options, can she stand any candidate for more than a few days?

From Seattle Times

It would impose work requirements on a panoply of assistance programs for low-income Americans.

From Los Angeles Times

A class of antimicrobial compounds with a modular molecular framework, COEs can be engineered into a panoply of therapeutic agents to fight a broad spectrum of infections.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• array