cuirass

[ kwi-ras ]

noun

1. Also called corselet. defensive armor for the torso comprising a breastplate and backplate, originally made of leather.
2. either of the plates forming such armor.
3. any similar covering, as the protective armor of a ship.
4. Zoology. a hard shell or other covering forming an indurated defensive shield.

verb (used with object)

1. to equip or cover with a cuirass.

cuirass

/ kwɪˈræs /

noun

1. a piece of armour, of leather or metal covering the chest and back
2. a hard outer protective covering of some animals, consisting of shell, plate, or scales
3. any similar protective covering, as on a ship

verb

1. tr to equip with a cuirass

Word History and Origins

Origin of cuirass¹

1425–75; < French cuirasse < Late Latin coriācea, noun use of feminine of coriāceus (adj.) leather, equivalent to Latin cori ( um ) leather + -āceus -aceous; replacing late Middle English curas < Middle French curasse, variant of cuirasse

Word History and Origins

Origin of cuirass¹

C15: from French cuirasse, from Late Latin coriacea, from coriaceus made of leather, from Latin corium leather

Example Sentences

These corps of mostly loyal mounted warriors were presented with heavy cuirasses and Phrygian helmets, and they acted as a hard-hitting yet mobile force on the battlefield.

From Realm of History

Round the women in wider circles were others,—three thousand men,—also in white, but with each a glittering cuirass and cimeter.

From Project Gutenberg

The colour of the cuirass on the back is iron grey, and on the flanks and tail of a light grey with spots of iron grey.

From Project Gutenberg

Only as technical skill improved could the final stage, that of the elaborate cuirass, be attained.

From Project Gutenberg

We read of the shield of Ajax being composed of seven tough ox-hides, and the word cuirass itself suggests a leather garment.

From Project Gutenberg

The cuirass is generally made in two pieces, an upper and a lower, which allows more freedom for the body.

From Project Gutenberg