How Do You Spell PELTA?

Pronunciation: [pˈɛltə] (IPA)

The word "Pelta" is a term used to describe a small shield that was popular in ancient Greece. In terms of spelling, "Pelta" is pronounced as /ˈpɛltə/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "pel" sounds like "pell," and the second syllable "ta" rhymes with "ma." The use of the phonetic transcription helps to provide a clear guide for accurate pronunciation of "Pelta." This technique can be useful in foreign languages or when trying to enunciate scientific or technical terms that are not commonly used.

PELTA Meaning and Definition

1. Pelta is a noun that refers to a type of ancient shield used predominantly during the Bronze Age and Iron Age by various civilizations. This word comes from the ancient Greek term "pelta," which means a crescent-shaped shield. The shield itself is characterized by its distinctive shape, typically being semicircular or crescent-like in design.

   Peltas were primarily made of wood, but they were often reinforced with metal bands or plates. They were relatively smaller and lighter compared to other types of shields, allowing for greater maneuverability in combat. The crescent shape of the pelta offered additional protection to the warrior, effectively covering their critical body areas.

   This shield was widely used by several ancient civilizations, including the Thracians, Greeks, and Romans. It was a favored choice of infantry soldiers and warriors, as its shape provided a good balance between offense and defense. Additionally, peltas sometimes featured a central boss, which was a round and often adorned knob in the middle of the shield, intended for deflecting enemy strikes.

   While the pelta gradually fell out of favor as new types of shields emerged, its historical significance and unique design make it an intriguing archaeological artifact. Today, scholars and historians study peltas to gain insights into ancient combat techniques and the cultural practices of the civilizations that utilized them.

2. A buckler; in bot., a flat shield without a rim.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PELTA

• pelga

Etymology of PELTA

The word "Pelta" derives from the Latin term "pelta" or "peltae", which originally referred to a light elliptical shield used by ancient Greek and Roman soldiers. The Latin word itself seems to have been borrowed from the Greek word "peltē" (πέλτη). The Greek term specifically designated a crescent-shaped shield made of wicker and covered with leather.

Plural form of PELTA is PELTAE