plastron

• Nom masculin désignant principalement une pièce d'étoffe ornementale couvrant le devant d'un corsage ou d'une chemise, mais aussi une plaque de métal protégeant la poitrine sous une armure, un rembourrage de protection utilisé en escrime, ou la partie inférieure de la carapace d'une tortue.

A noun with multiple meanings: it can refer to the ornamental front of a bodice or shirt, a metal breastplate worn under armor, a protective pad used in fencing, or the underside of a turtle's shell.

1. Ornamental bodice frontC1formal

   The decorative front panel of a woman's bodice or blouse, often embellished with lace or embroidery.

   Plastron (devant de corsage)

   • The dress featured a silk plastron adorned with pearls.
   • She wore a vintage blouse with an embroidered plastron.
   • The plastron of her gown was covered in intricate beadwork.

   Synonymesdickey

2. Dress shirt frontC1formal

   The front part of a man's formal dress shirt, often stiffened or pleated.

   Plastron de chemise

   • His tuxedo shirt had a starched plastron.
   • The plastron of the shirt was pleated for a classic look.
   • He adjusted the studs on his shirt's plastron.

   Synonymesbosom

3. Metal breastplateC1formal

   A piece of armor worn over the chest, typically under chainmail, for protection.

   Plastron métallique

   • The knight wore a steel plastron beneath his mail.
   • The plastron was engraved with his family crest.
   • Medieval armor often included a reinforced plastron.

   Synonymesbreastplatecuirass

4. Fencing chest protectorC1formalsport

   A padded protective garment worn by fencers to shield the chest and torso.

   Plastron d'escrime

   • The fencer put on a plastron before the match.
   • A plastron is essential for safety in fencing.
   • His plastron absorbed the impact of the opponent's thrust.

5. Turtle shell undersideC1formalscientific

   The ventral (bottom) part of a turtle's shell, also known as the lower shell.

   Plastron de tortue

   • The turtle's plastron is lighter in color than its carapace.
   • Scientists examined the plastron to determine the turtle's age.
   • The plastron provides protection for the turtle's soft underside.