Armor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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armor

[ˈɑːmər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

protective gear

Armor is a protective covering that is used to prevent damage from being inflicted on the wearer. It is commonly made of metal or other strong materials and is worn by soldiers, knights, and warriors in battle.

Synonyms

defence, protection, shield.

Examples of usage

  • Knights wore armor to protect themselves in combat.
  • The soldier's armor saved his life during the battle.
  • The medieval armor was heavy but provided excellent protection.
  • Modern armor is designed to withstand bullets and explosions.
  • The armored vehicle was able to safely transport the troops through enemy territory.
Context #2 | Verb

protective action

To armor means to provide protection or defense, either physically or metaphorically. It can involve preparing or fortifying oneself or others against potential harm or danger.

Synonyms

defend, fortify, shield.

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers armored themselves before entering the battlefield.
  • She armored her heart against further emotional pain.
  • Armoring the vehicle against the harsh weather conditions was essential.
  • He armored his arguments with strong evidence.
  • They armored the building against potential security threats.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • In medieval times, knights wore heavy metal armor made of multiple plates, which offered excellent protection but was quite heavy.
  • Marine armor, such as chainmail and plate, evolved in the 14th and 15th centuries, becoming intricately designed for better mobility and defense.
  • By the 19th century, advancements in technology and weaponry led to the development of lighter, more effective forms of armor.

Cultural Impact

  • Armor appears frequently in literature and films, symbolizing bravery and honor, often associated with knights and epic battles.
  • In modern video games and fantasy genres, armor sets play a crucial role in character development and protection strategies.
  • Popular culture showcases various styles of armor, from medieval knights to futuristic exoskeletons in sci-fi narratives.

Science and Technology

  • Modern armor has evolved into materials like Kevlar and other synthetic fibers, used in bulletproof vests for police and military personnel.
  • Research in nanotechnology is paving the way for lighter and stronger defense mechanisms that can revolutionize personal protection gear.
  • 3D printing technology is exploring the potential for creating custom-fit armor that adapts to individual wearers.

Psychological Aspects

  • Wearing armor can affect a person's mindset, instilling a sense of security and confidence in high-pressure situations.
  • The metaphorical use of 'armor' extends to emotional protection, where people develop 'armor' to guard against psychological harm in relationships.
  • Raiding influential figures in history, such as knights and soldiers, demonstrates the lengths individuals go to protect themselves and their interests.

Origin of 'armor'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'armor' comes from the Latin term 'armatura,' which means 'equipment for war.'
  • In Old French, 'armure' referred to any protective gear in combat, leading to the English usage we have today.
  • The concept of wearing protective gear dates back to ancient civilizations, showcasing its long-standing importance in warfare.

The word 'armor' originated from the Old French term 'armure', which in turn came from the Latin word 'armatura' meaning 'equipment or arms'. The concept of armor has been around for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. In medieval times, armor played a crucial role in protecting warriors in battle. Over the years, advancements in materials and technology have led to the development of modern armor used in military and law enforcement applications.


See also: arm, armband, armed, armlet, armlets, armory, armour, armoury, arms, army, disarm, disarmed, unarm, unarmed.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,361 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.