armour
noun (countable)
UK/ˈɑː.mər/US/ˈɑːr.mər/
A protective covering or shell surrounding something, providing defense or safeguarding.
Example Sentences
The armour of the spacecraft protects it from meteor impacts.
Trees have a natural armour that shields them from harsh weather conditions.
The vehicle's armour makes it resistant to explosions and gunfire.
She applied a protective armour to her skin before going out in the sun.
The armour surrounding the data center ensures its security against cyber threats.
The turtle's hard shell acts as its natural armour against predators.
Engineers designed an armour to safeguard the equipment from environmental damage.
The building was reinforced with additional armour to withstand earthquakes.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
verb (transitive)
UK/əˈmɜːr/US/əˈmɜːr/
To provide or equip with armour or protective coverings.
Example Sentences
Soldiers were armoured before entering the conflict zone.
The vehicles were armoured to ensure the safety of their occupants.
They decided to armour their base with reinforced materials.
He armoured the ship to protect it from enemy attacks.
The building was armoured against potential bomb threats.
Engineers armoured the machinery to prevent damage from harsh conditions.
She armoured herself with knowledge before facing the challenges ahead.
The team armoured their strategy to withstand market fluctuations.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
A defensive layer shielding against weapons or harmful conditions.“Armour” (spelled “armor” in American English) traditionally refers to protective gear worn by warriors or soldiers, made from materials like metal, leather, or chain mail. Throughout history, knights in medieval Europe donned suits of armour to guard against swords, arrows, and other weapons, while samurai in Japan used unique, layered armour designs. In modern contexts, the term extends to protective covers on vehicles (tanks or armored cars) and even to metaphorical uses—like someone’s “emotional armour,” indicating defenses against criticism or harm. When referencing literal armour, the focus is on its function: deflecting blows or reducing the impact of attacks. Over time, armour has evolved from heavy plate suits to lighter, high-tech materials (like Kevlar) used in ballistic vests. Museums and historical recreations often showcase older forms of armour, illustrating craftsmanship and reflecting cultural artistry. Meanwhile, figurative use—“Her kindness was her best armour”—highlights how intangible qualities can serve as self-protection. Whether discussing medieval knights, modern soldiers, or personal defenses, “armour” signals a shielding barrier, physical or symbolic, safeguarding someone or something from threats.
Alternatives
For physical protective gear, you might see “protective gear,” “body armor” (American spelling), or “plate mail” if describing specific medieval steel suits. “Shielding” can work for vehicles or structures, underscoring coverage rather than a wearable suit. Figuratively, words like “defenses,” “protection,” or “barrier” highlight intangible self-protection or social safeguards. In certain contexts, “shell,” “outer layer,” or “covering” describes how organisms or machines shield themselves, though “armour” remains the most direct term for robust personal protective gear, whether in a medieval reenactment or a contemporary security context.
Writing
When writing about “armour” in historical or fantasy literature, detail materials (like iron, steel, or dragon scales), specifying design elements (helm, gauntlets, breastplate) to enrich the world-building. In nonfiction or academic discussions—perhaps about weaponry evolution—note how armour influenced combat tactics, soldier mobility, and the shift from heavy plate to lighter bulletproof fabrics. You might also explore cultural variations—Mongol lamellar armour, Middle Eastern mail-and-plate, or the elaborate artistry of Japanese samurai suits.If you’re describing modern contexts, highlight the science behind ballistic vests, composite armor on tanks, or advanced polymers protecting astronauts. In fiction, metaphorical uses of “armour” can illustrate characters’ psychological defenses—“She had built an invisible armour of cynicism.” Clarify whether you’re referencing tangible coverings, metaphorical barriers, or protective technology, giving readers context to interpret each usage appropriately.
Casual Conversation
In everyday speech, “armour” doesn’t crop up as often except in historical discussions, fantasy gaming, or references to bulletproof gear. You might comment on a friend’s “emotional armour” if they act distant, or jokingly mention “I need armour for this paintball match!” Geeks or gamers might mention “upgrading armour” in an RPG. People may also reference armour in describing medieval-themed events—like a renaissance fair with knights in shining armour.If you’re describing personal resilience, you might say, “Sometimes you’ve got to put on emotional armour before going into a stressful meeting.” This colloquial usage underscores how “armour” can be a figurative layer shielding someone from negative forces. Overall, casual conversation leans on “armour” either playfully or metaphorically, unless you’re discussing a hobby or profession where protective gear is crucial (like security, law enforcement, or cosplaying knights at a fair).
Etymology
The word “armour” derives from the Old French “armure,” itself from the Latin “armatura,” meaning “equipment or arms.” In medieval Europe, “armure” referred broadly to defensive arms for soldiers or knights. As English incorporated this term, it solidified into “armour,” capturing protective body coverings for warriors, soon symbolizing chivalric imagery and heraldic traditions. Over time, “armour” also took on more figurative uses, illustrating how even intangible defenses (like confidence or caution) can ward off harm. Today, whether referencing vintage plate mail, modern bulletproof vests, or emotional barriers, “armour” reminds us of the longstanding human drive to shield ourselves against threats, physical or otherwise.
