pavis

pavis Definition

pavis (pav′is)

noun

a large shield for protecting the entire body, used in the 14th through 16th cent.

Etymology: ME paveis < MFr pavaiz < It pavese after Pavia, Italy, where first made

pavis Usage Examples

Adjective modifier

large: Use of such large pavises is not unknown in other parts of Europe, tho they were normally restricted to siege warfare.

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