coat of mail

American  

noun

1. a long defensive garment made of interlinked metal rings; hauberk; byrnie.

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coat of mail British  

noun

1. a protective garment made of linked metal rings (mail) or of overlapping metal plates; hauberk

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Etymology

Origin of coat of mail

1480–90; parallel to French cotte de mailles

Example Sentences

The coats of mail, the helmets, the lances, pikes, bows and arrows were being put in order, and the great two-handed sword hung on the wall.

From Literature

“Look at the amazing workmanship on this,” Mr. Garly said, fingering the interlocking metal rings on a coat of mail.

From New York Times

His coat of mail hung lose from his stooping shoulders.

From Literature

Crimson silk draped his hindquarters, over a coat of mail.

From Literature

A compact crowd surrounded the dwelling of the Prophet who soon appeared, girt with his coat of mail, helmet on head, sword by his side, shield on his shoulders, and spear in hand....

From Project Gutenberg