Pronunciation: [ɡˈambɛsən] (IPA) 
Gambeson is a type of padded jacket used in medieval times as a form of protection. The spelling of the word is pronounced as /ɡæmˈbɛsən/. The first syllable "gam" is pronounced with a hard "g" sound like in "game", followed by a short "a" sound as in "cat". The stress is on the second syllable "be", which is pronounced with a short "e" sound like in "bed". The final syllable "son" is pronounced with a short "o" sound like in "lot".
A gambeson is a type of padded, protective garment that was historically worn underneath armor during medieval times. Also known as an aketon or arming doublet, it served as a form of armor reinforcement and padding, offering additional protection to the wearer.
Typically made of several layers of quilted fabric, such as linen or wool, a gambeson was designed to absorb the impact of weapons and reduce the risk of injury caused by blows or slashes. It provided both comfort and flexibility to the wearer, as the quilted padding helped distribute the weight of the armor more evenly across the body. Additionally, it helped to prevent direct contact between the wearer's skin and the metal armor, reducing the risk of chafing and discomfort.
Gambesons were commonly used by knights, soldiers, and warriors across Europe and the Middle East during the medieval period, from the 12th to the 16th centuries. The design and thickness of the gambeson varied depending on the region and the intended use. Some gambesons featured additional reinforcement such as metal plates or chainmail, further enhancing the protective capabilities.
While primarily associated with medieval warfare, gambesons also found use outside of battle, as they were often worn by individuals engaged in various sports and physical activities where additional protection was desired. Today, gambesons are often reenacted and worn by historical reenactors and enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the protective gear used in the past.
The word "Gambeson" is derived from the Old French term "gambeison", which was used to refer to a quilted protective jacket or coat worn under armor. In turn, "gambeison" originated from the Late Latin word "wambesia" or "wambasia", meaning "waistcoat" or "a piece of armor for the abdomen". This Latin term can be further traced back to the Germanic root word "wamb", meaning "belly" or "stomach". Over time, "gambeison" evolved and was anglicized to "gambeson", which is the term commonly used today to describe a type of padded armor.
