Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒdpiːs/

Definitions

• 1. A covering for the male genitals, often padded, worn in the 15th and 16th centuries as part of a man's clothing, typically attached to the front of the hose.
• 2. A decorative or functional garment, often made of leather or cloth, worn over the crotch area, usually with elaborate design in medieval and Renaissance fashion.

Usage Examples

• The nobleman wore a brightly colored codpiece as part of his ensemble at the royal court.
• Codpieces were often seen as symbols of masculinity and were a prominent feature of fashion in the Renaissance.
• In modern times, the codpiece has become a symbol of historical costume rather than everyday clothing.

Etymology

Derived from the word "cod," meaning "bag" or "pouch" in Old English, referring to the pouch-like structure that the garment covered. The word "piece" was added to indicate a part of a larger set of garments. The term has been in use since the 15th century.

Synonyms

• Pouch
• Codpiece armor
• Protective garment

Antonyms

• Skirt
• Dresses
• Trousers (modern equivalent of full covering)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "codpiece" can vary, though it is typically pronounced as /ˈkɒdpiːs/ in British English and /ˈkɑːdpiːs/ in American English. Some regional accents in the UK may soften the "d" sound, leading to /ˈkɔːdpiːs/.

Historical Usage

The codpiece became fashionable in the 15th century, particularly during the Renaissance period. It was worn as part of the men's fashion to highlight the male genitalia, often padded or elaborately decorated. During this time, codpieces were considered a symbol of masculinity and virility, and they were often richly adorned with jewels, embroidery, and even armor. The codpiece began to fall out of favor by the 17th century, though it occasionally reappears in theatrical or period costume designs.

Cultural Nuances

The codpiece is often regarded today as a humorous or archaic garment, a symbol of a past era of exaggerated fashion. In modern times, it has been referenced in literature, theater, and film, sometimes as a symbol of outdated or overly masculine ideals. The codpiece also finds its place in historical reenactments and as a humorous reference to the extravagant nature of past male fashion trends.

More Information

The codpiece was an integral part of Renaissance fashion for several centuries, worn as part of the doublet or hose. Over time, the codpiece evolved from a practical covering into a symbol of status, wealth, and sometimes bravado. Its use was highly ornamental, with some codpieces being elaborately decorated with embroidery or gems. While it may seem like a peculiar item of clothing by modern standards, the codpiece played a significant role in the development of fashion and cultural symbols of masculinity during the Renaissance period.