CHAUSSES Meaning and
Definition
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Chausses, derived from the Old French word "chausse" meaning leggings or hose, refer to a type of leg armor worn during the medieval period. Specifically, chausses were a form of leg protection that covered the lower body from the waist down to the feet. They were typically constructed using interlinked metal rings, forming a form-fitting mesh that provided flexibility and mobility to the wearer.
Chausses were an integral component of a knight's armor, serving as an essential means of protection during battle. They were designed to safeguard the legs from enemy attacks, such as slashes, cuts, and thrusts, which were particularly vulnerable areas. The use of chausses not only shielded the lower limbs but also facilitated a greater range of motion, enabling warriors to engage in mounted combat and maneuver swiftly on the battlefield.
These leg coverings could be worn independently or as part of an entire suit of armor, depending on the knight's preferences or requirements. Chausses were commonly attached to a belt, fastened using buckles, or secured to a padded garment called a pourpoint. This method ensured a secure fit and prevented the armor from shifting or restricting movement during combat.
The term "chausses" is predominantly associated with the medieval period, particularly the 13th to the 15th centuries, when plate armor became prevalent. As technology advanced, chausses gradually became obsolete, giving way to more sophisticated leg protection options like greaves. Nonetheless, chausses played a significant role in the history of armor development and continue to be of interest to historians, reenactors, and enthusiasts studying medieval warfare.
Common Misspellings for CHAUSSES
- xhausses
- vhausses
- fhausses
- dhausses
- cgausses
- cbausses
- cnausses
- cjausses
- cuausses
- cyausses
- chzusses
- chsusses
- chwusses
- chqusses
- chaysses
- chahsses
- chajsses
- chaisses
- cha8sses
- cha7sses
Etymology of CHAUSSES
The word "chausses" originated from the Middle English term "chawce", which was derived from the Old French word "chaucie" meaning "leg covering". The Old French term, in turn, came from the Late Latin word "calceus", referring to a shoe or legging. "Calceus" ultimately traces back to the Latin word "calx", meaning "heel". Over time, "chausses" came to specifically refer to a type of medieval leg armor or leggings worn by knights, made of mail or plate and used to protect the lower body.
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