1. Plural of pavis; large shields, typically rectangular or kite-shaped, used by medieval soldiers for protection in battle.
Usage: historical; also spelled 'pavesses'

Examples

• The soldiers carried pavises into battle to shield themselves from arrows.
• Medieval knights often relied on pavises for defense during sieges.
• The museum displayed several ancient pavises from the 14th century.
• Archers stood behind pavises while preparing their shots.
• The castle's defenders held their pavises high against the enemy assault.