# greaves

/ˈɡɹivz/ (US) · /ɡɹˈiːvz/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/greaves
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

the front parts of a person's legs, from the knee down to the ankle. You use this word mostly when talking about armor or the shape of a leg.

For teachers: the front part of the leg, specifically the area between the knee and the ankle. Often used in anatomical or historical contexts to describe protective armor or the shape of the lower limb.

## Examples

- The knight wore heavy metal greaves to protect his legs.
- The sculptor carefully carved the greaves of the statue to show the muscle definition of the athlete.
- In many ancient cultures, greaves were not only functional pieces of armor but also served as a canvas for intricate decorative patterns that signified the wearer's social status.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.