codpiece

American  

[kod-pees] / ˈkɒdˌpis /

noun

1. (in the 15th and 16th centuries) a flap or cover for the crotch in men's hose or tight-fitting breeches, usually matching the costume and often decorated.

2. Obsolete. penis.

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codpiece British  

/ ˈkɒdˌpiːs /

noun

1. a bag covering the male genitals, attached to hose or breeches by laces, etc, worn in the 15th and 16th centuries

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Etymology

Origin of codpiece

1400–50; late Middle English. See cod ², piece

Example Sentences

The cast spoke to The Associated Press about the importance of casting, the comfort of a codpiece and coldness of old castles.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 30, 2024

Ancient Egyptians had schenti, Romans wore subligaculum, and the Medieval world embraced braies and chausses before the introduction of the codpiece during the Renaissance.

From National Geographic • Jan. 9, 2024

Gladiator codpiece, chariot, armour, plus prop horses that look both frightened and frightening.

From The Guardian • Apr. 6, 2018

Blackie Lawless, the lead singer of the hair band W.A.S.P., used to perform wearing a flaming codpiece, which once exploded, burning the hair off his legs.

From Slate • Jan. 28, 2013

"Look at me, Pod. It unnerves me when you talk to my codpiece, especially when I'm not wearing one. Who is inside my solar?"

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin