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 Torah describes the details of the breastplate that the high priest, Aaron, and his sons wore. — Rabbi Ashley Englander, Sun Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2025 While there were many more outstanding teachers who made a difference in my life, the memory of Carr, and Shannon and Lewis stand out, like it’s etched on the breastplate of my heart and mind. — Bea L. Hines, Miami Herald, 14 Mar. 2025 Take Wicked star Cynthia Erivo, who went ethereal in her white macramé cotton lace bustier gown (with a breastplate that defied gravity—get it?). — Christian Allaire, Vogue, 16 Feb. 2025 Her sculpted blue gown featured a metallic lunar blue breastplate featuring a wolf motif that was molded to the singer's exact measurements, cascading into a skirt of fluid layers. — Catherine Santino, People.com, 13 Feb. 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

Rhymes for breastplate

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Browse Nearby Words

breastpin
breastplate
breastplow
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Cite this Entry

“Breastplate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breastplate. Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about breastplate

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