cuirass

A cuirass is a type of armor that protects the torso, covering the chest and back. Traditionally made from materials like metal or hardened leather, it was worn by soldiers in battle to shield vital organs from weapons. The cuirass usually consists of two main pieces: the front plate and the back plate, which are fastened together. While it was prominent in medieval and Renaissance warfare, the design has evolved over time. Today, the term is sometimes used in modern contexts to describe body armor for law enforcement or military use, as well as in fashion.