pavise
Noun: 1. A large, heavy, oblong shield used in medieval warfare: A pavise is a type of tall shield, often rectangular or curved at the top, designed to protect the entire body of a soldier, particularly an archer or crossbowman, from enemy missiles. It could be carried by a soldier or set into the ground to form a static defensive wall.
The word "pavise" is a historical term used specifically in the context of medieval European military history and equipment. It describes a particular piece of defensive armor.
Examples: - The archers took cover behind a line of pavises while reloading their crossbows. - A single pavise was often so large and heavy that a specialized bearer, called a pavisier, was needed to carry it. - Archaeologists studied the painting on the recovered pavise to learn about the soldier's unit.
- "To set up a pavise": This phrase describes the action of planting the shield into the ground to create a fixed defensive position.
- The crossbowmen quickly set up their pavises before the enemy cavalry charge.
- Pavis (noun): An alternate, less common spelling for "pavise."
- Pavisier (noun): A soldier whose role was to carry the pavise for an archer or crossbowman.
- Shield: A general term for a piece of defensive armor carried in the hand or on the arm. (A pavise is a specific type of large shield.)
- Mantlet: A similar large, movable shield or screen used for protection, often in sieges.
There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs using the word "pavise," as it is a highly specific historical term.
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(Middle Ages) a large heavy oblong shield protecting the whole body; originally carried but sometimes set up in permanent position
