Etymology:
Middle English: pauldron, paudron, from Old French: pauldron, from Italian: spalla, "shoulder"
Meaning and Origin:
A pauldron is a piece of armor worn on the shoulder to protect the wearer from attack. The term is derived from the French word "pauldron," which in turn comes from the Italian word "spalla," meaning "shoulder."
Pauldrons were first developed in the late medieval period as a way to protect the vulnerable joint between the shoulder and the upper arm. They were initially made of leather or hardened cloth, but later evolved to be made of metal. Pauldrons were typically attached to a breastplate or suit of chainmail, and often extended over the upper arm.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, pauldrons became more elaborate and decorative, with some featuring intricate engravings or embossing. They were also sometimes used as a status symbol, with the size and ornamentation of the pauldron indicating the rank or wealth of the wearer.
By the 18th century, pauldrons had largely fallen out of use as a practical piece of armor, but they continued to be used in ceremonial dress and in military uniforms. Today, pauldrons are still worn by some military and police units, as well as by re-enactors and participants in historical demonstrations.
Etymology French épaulette Late Latin spathula little shoulder Greek σπάθη
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