1. A broad ornamental belt or girdle worn by women in ancient Greece and Rome.
Usage: historical; often capitalized when referring to the mythological girdle of Aphrodite
2. In ancient boxing, a leather strap or binding wrapped around the hand and forearm for protection.
Usage: historical; also spelled caestus

Examples

• The goddess wore a jeweled cestos that enhanced her beauty.
• Ancient Greek boxers wrapped a cestos around their hands before competing.
• The cestos was an essential piece of armor for Roman fighters.
• In classical art, the cestos is depicted as a symbol of feminine elegance.
• Archaeologists have found remnants of leather cestoi used in ancient athletic competitions.