breastplate

noun

breast·​plate ˈbres(t)-ˌplāt How to pronounce breastplate (audio)
1
: a usually metal plate worn as defensive armor for the breast see armor illustration
2
: a vestment worn in ancient times by a Jewish high priest and set with 12 gems bearing the names of the tribes of Israel
3
: a piece against which a worker's breast is pressed in operating a tool (such as a breast drill)

Examples of breastplate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The breastplate was worn over the high priest’s heart. Rabbi Ashley Englander, Sun Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2025 Elsewhere, prosthetics came to play a key role in the art form of drag, where performers use prosthetic breastplates and hip pads to show varying forms of femininity. Kyle MacNeill, CNN Money, 1 Apr. 2025 In 2021, the Only Murders in the Building star made a statement at the gala in her Dior Haute Couture white trousers and matching breastplate, worn with white Dior heels. Bailey Richards, Peoplemag, 7 May 2024 The Torah describes the details of the breastplate that the high priest, Aaron, and his sons wore. Rabbi Ashley Englander, Sun Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for breastplate

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of breastplate was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Breastplate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breastplate. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

breastplate

noun
breast·​plate ˈbres(t)-ˌplāt How to pronounce breastplate (audio)
: metal armor for covering the breast

More from Merriam-Webster on breastplate

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