Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Codpiece Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

👖
Add to dictionary

codpiece

[ˈkɒdˌpiːs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical clothing

A codpiece is a flap or pouch that attaches to the front of men's trousers, often used in the 15th to 17th centuries. It served to cover and protect the male genitals and was often used as a form of decoration. The codpiece became a fashionable accessory, signifying masculinity and male virility during the Renaissance period. They could be quite elaborate, sometimes featuring embroidery or embellishments, and were used by men of all social classes. The use of the codpiece declined in the 17th century as fashion changed.

Synonyms

flap, pouch, trouser accoutrement.

Examples of usage

  • He wore a vibrant codpiece at the Renaissance fair.
  • The museum displayed an ornate codpiece from the 16th century.
  • Historical paintings often depict men wearing elaborate codpieces.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The codpiece originated in Europe during the late Middle Ages as a way to add both modesty and fashion to men's clothing.
  • Initially, it was a practical solution for the loose-fitting garments of the time but evolved into a fashion statement.
  • The term 'cod' is believed to have originated from an older term for a pouch or bag, representing its function in men's attire.

Cultural Significance

  • Codpieces often featured intricate embroidery, giving men a means to assert social status and masculinity during the Renaissance.
  • During the Tudor period, some codpieces became exaggerated in size, making them a humorous symbol in plays and art.
  • In modern times, the codpiece has seen revivals in fashion, particularly in punk and avant-garde movements, highlighting its enduring eccentricity.

Pop Culture

  • The codpiece is often referenced in modern media as a comedic symbol of outdated masculinity, appearing in movies and theatrical productions.
  • Iconic rock stars have donned codpieces, often as a statement of rebellion or flamboyance, reinforcing its image in pop culture.
  • Video games occasionally feature codpieces, embracing their absurdity and nodding to historical fashion within their design.

Fashion Evolution

  • As trousers became fitted and modernized, codpieces gradually disappeared, replaced by more practical forms of clothing.
  • In the Elizabethan era, they were sometimes padded to enhance the male figure, blending functionality with fashion.
  • Today, similar elements can be seen in certain styles of menswear, including tailored shorts and avant-garde fashion pieces.

Psychological Aspects

  • The codpiece has been analyzed as a reflection of societal views on masculinity, body image, and sexuality in historical contexts.
  • Some fashion historians view the codpiece as a form of armor, not just physically but psychologically, showcasing male vulnerability and strength.
  • Contemporary discussions about the codpiece often focus on themes of gender representation and the politics of clothing.

Origin of 'codpiece'

The term 'codpiece' originates from the Middle English word 'cod', which meant 'scrotum' or 'bag'. The addition of 'piece' signifies that it is a separate garment or accessory. Codpieces were first popularized in the late 15th century when men's fashion shifted to emphasize the groin area, often enhancing the male silhouette in a way that expressed power and virility. Initially, codpieces were simple and functional, but as fashion evolved, they became more decorative and extravagant. This shift towards adornment reflected a societal fascination with masculinity and the male body, especially during the Renaissance, a period marked by artistic and cultural advancements. The codpiece became symbolic of male dominance and sexuality until its eventual decline in the 17th century, largely due to changes in fashion and a growing focus on more practical attire.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,823, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.