Pronunciation: [plˈe͡ɪtɪd mˈe͡ɪl] (IPA) 
The spelling of "plated mail" is straightforward. "Plated" is spelled phonetically as /pleɪtɪd/ and refers to armor or clothing made with metal plates. "Mail" is spelled as /meɪl/, also indicating a type of armor made with interlocking metal rings. "Plated mail" combines the two, referring to armor made with both metal plates and interlocking rings. When pronounced together, it sounds like /pleɪtɪd meɪl/.
Plated mail is a type of armor consisting of overlapping metal plates sewn or riveted onto a fabric or leather foundation. It was primarily used as a form of protection in medieval times, specifically between the 13th and 14th centuries.
Plated mail offers superior defense compared to its predecessor, chainmail, due to the presence of solid metal plates that cover a majority of the wearer's body. These plates are usually made from iron or steel and are strategically arranged to provide maximum protection while still allowing for mobility and flexibility. The plates are often shaped and contoured to fit the body contours, providing a more comfortable and ergonomic fit.
Due to its enhanced protective qualities and durability, plated mail was commonly used by knights and other members of the elite warrior class during this period. Its effectiveness was noted in providing excellent protection against weapons such as swords, axes, and arrows, as the metal plates offer a strong resistance to piercing and slashing attacks.
The process of creating plated mail involved skilled blacksmiths who would shape, polish, and attach the metal plates carefully onto the foundation. These plates would typically cover various parts of the body, including the chest, arms, legs, and even the head in some cases.
Overall, plated mail represents a significant advancement in medieval armor technology, offering greater protection and improved battle readiness for those who wore it.
The term "plated mail" is derived from combining two words: "plate" and "mail".
The word "plate" is derived from the Latin word "plattus", meaning "flat" or "something made of metal". It entered Middle English in the 14th century, referring to a flat piece of metal. Over time, it specifically came to refer to armor made of metal plates that protected the body.
The word "mail" comes from the Old English word "male", which originated from the Latin word "macula", meaning "mesh". It initially referred to a mesh-like armor made of interlinked metal rings, known as chainmail or simply "mail".
Therefore, "plated mail" refers to a type of armor that combines metal plates with interlinked rings. It was commonly used during the Medieval period to improve the protection of knights in battles.
