Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈiːvz] (IPA) 
Greaves, pronounced as /ɡriːvz/, is a plural noun that refers to a piece of armor that protects the front of the leg. The word has its origins in Old English "graeafa," which meant shin or shin armor. The spelling of the word is standardized, with the "ea" representing the long "e" sound and the "v" being a voiced dental fricative. Although the spelling may appear irregular, it conforms to the conventions of English orthography.
Greaves are a type of protective armor worn on the lower legs and shins. They have been used throughout history to safeguard the calves and shins against injury in battle or other hazardous situations.
Typically made from materials such as metal, leather, or a combination of both, greaves are designed to offer excellent protection without compromising mobility. They are often secured to the leg with straps, buckles, or laces, providing a snug fit to prevent movement or slippage during physical activities.
Greaves have been utilized by various civilizations throughout history, including ancient Greeks, Romans, and medieval knights. The specific design can vary, with some styles extending from the knee down to the ankle, while others only cover the calf and shin. Additionally, they may incorporate additional features, such as articulated plates for flexibility or decorative embellishments for aesthetic purposes.
The primary purpose of greaves is to shield the lower leg from blows, cuts, or other forms of impact, preventing serious injury in combat or high-risk settings. By effectively guarding this vulnerable area of the body, greaves contribute to overall protection and enhance the wearer's confidence and safety.
In contemporary usage, greaves are mainly associated with historical reenactments, cosplay, or fantasy-themed events. However, they continue to symbolize an important aspect of ancient and medieval warfare, serving as a reminder of the efforts made to protect oneself in dangerous situations.
• Armour for the legs.
• The dregs at the bottom of the pot in melting tallow made up into cakes as food for dogs, &c.: to grave a ship, to smear the hull with graves, for which pitch is now employed: graving-dock, a dock from which the water can be run off in order to smear a ship with graves; an enclosure on the side of a river or on the sea-shore, into which a vessel can be floated for examination and repairs.
• See graves, dog's food.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "greaves" has its roots in Middle English, but its ultimate origin is from Old English "græf", meaning "shin" or "lower leg". This term is related to the Old Norse word "grif", meaning "calf of the leg". The word "greaves" itself dates back to the 14th century and originally referred specifically to the armor worn to protect the shin. Over time, it extended its meaning to include any type of armor that covers the lower leg. The term is still used today to describe protective armor for the lower leg, commonly used in various sports and martial arts.
