Definition

Noun: 1. War dress, battle robe: A traditional long coat or robe worn by warriors or military commanders when going into battle in ancient times. It refers specifically to ceremonial or functional combat attire from historical periods.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Vị tướng mặc chiến bào đứng trước ba quân. (The general, wearing his war dress, stood before the army.)
  • Chiến bào của người lính đã sờn rách sau nhiều trận đánh. (The soldier's battle robe was worn and torn after many battles.)
  • Trong bảo tàng có trưng bày một chiến bào từ thế kỷ 15. (A war dress from the 15th century is on display in the museum.)

Advanced Usage

• This word is primarily used in historical, literary, or poetic contexts to evoke imagery of ancient warfare. It is not used for modern military uniforms.
• Often appears in descriptions of heroic figures, historical novels, or traditional theater (like Tuồng or Chèo).

Variants and Related Words

• Chiến phục (n): A more general term for combat attire or military uniform, which can be used for both historical and modern contexts.
• Giáp trụ (n): Refers specifically to armor (e.g., plate armor, mail), not a robe or coat.

Synonyms

• Áo trận (n): Battle coat (a less common, more direct synonym).
• Bào (n): Archaic/poetic term for a long robe; "chiến bào" is a compound of "chiến" (war) and "bào" (robe).

Notes on Meaning

• The word carries a connotation of formality, authority, and tradition. It implies the wearer is of significant rank (e.g., a general, commander, or noble warrior).
• It distinctly refers to a garment (a robe/coat), not the full set of armor or weaponry.

noun

1. War dress