GORGET Meaning and
Definition
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A gorget is a term with multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used. Generally, a gorget refers to a protective piece of armor worn around the neck and throat area. This form of armor was common during the medieval period, serving as a vital component of a knight's or soldier's defense. Made from metal, leather, or other sturdy materials, it was designed to safeguard against direct blows to the neck during combat.
Alternatively, a gorget can describe a distinct part of a bird's anatomy. In ornithology, it refers to a patch of color or pattern on a bird's plumage located on the side of the neck or upper breast region. The gorget is often iridescent or vibrantly colored and may play a role in display or courtship behaviors. This feature is particularly notable in hummingbirds, where the gorget's shimmering brilliance is used to attract mates or intimidate rivals.
Outside of these specialized contexts, the term "gorget" may have rare and less well-known meanings. These include an old-fashioned medical instrument used for opening the trachea, a piece of jewelry worn as a pendant suspended from a necklace, or an architectural element resembling a collar or band encircling a column.
Overall, the term "gorget" encompasses various meanings depending on the field or subject matter, but its core definition revolves around protection, either for the body or as a physical feature of an animal.
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A director or guide with wide groove for use in lithotomy.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A piece of armour for the throat; a small ornament worn by officers on the breast.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GORGET
- horget
- yorget
- gkrget
- glrget
- gprget
- g0rget
- g9rget
- goeget
- godget
- gofget
- gotget
- go5get
- go4get
- gorfet
- gorvet
- gorhet
- goryet
- gortet
- gorgwt
Etymology of GORGET
The word "gorget" entered the English language in the 15th century, and its etymology can be traced back to the Old French word "gorgete" or "gorgiere". In turn, these terms were derived from the Latin word "gurgula", which means "throat". The Latin word "gurgula" referred to a narrow opening through which liquid passes, such as a gorge or a gullet. Over time, "gorgete" in Old French came to refer to a piece of clothing or jewelry worn around the throat area. Eventually, the term "gorget" came to be associated with a part of armor that protected the throat and neck, worn by knights in medieval times.
Similar spelling words for GORGET
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