SPLINT ARMOUR Meaning and
Definition
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Splint armour refers to a type of protective armor used in medieval times, principally during the 14th and 15th centuries. It is designed to offer protection to the wearer by mitigating damage inflicted during combat, primarily in melee combat situations.
The construction of splint armor involves the use of numerous vertical strips or splints, typically made from metal, which are secured to a fabric base such as leather or cloth. These splints are generally flat or slightly curved, and their purpose is to distribute the force of a blow over a larger surface area, thereby reducing the impact on a particular point and minimizing injury. This method of construction also provides flexibility and mobility to the wearer, allowing them to move relatively freely.
Splint armor is often worn over a padded gambeson or other protective clothing in order to enhance its effectiveness. The splints are usually overlapping and held together by rivets or lacing, ensuring that the armor remains intact during combat. Although the strips are commonly made from metal, other materials like wood or whalebone have also been used in some cases.
This form of armor offers good protection against cuts and slashes, especially with proper padding underneath. However, it has limitations against thrusting attacks, such as stabs from spears, due to the absence of solid plates to absorb the impact. Splint armor was initially popular in Western Europe but gradually fell out of use with the advent of plate armor. Nonetheless, it remains an important example of medieval defensive technology.
Etymology of SPLINT ARMOUR
The word "splint" can be traced back to Middle English, where it referred to a narrow wooden strip or bar used for different purposes. It came from Old French "espleinte" or "espainte", which ultimately derived from Latin "spolium", meaning "strip of wood".
"Armour", on the other hand, has a Latin origin. It comes from the Latin word "armatura", which meant "equipment" or "gear".
Combining these two roots, "splint armour" refers to a type of armor made with narrow strips or bars, often of metal, that are either riveted or laced together. It was commonly used during the medieval period as a form of protection for various body parts, such as arms or legs.
