breastplate

noun

breast·​plate ˈbres(t)-ˌplāt 

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

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

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for breastplate

• abate
• airfreight
• await
• baseplate
• berate
• birthdate
• birthrate
• bookplate
• borate
• bromate
• casemate
• castrate

Kids Definition

breastplate

noun

breast·​plate ˈbres(t)-ˌplāt 

: metal armor for covering the breast