noun
- Plural of plastrum; the ventral (belly) part of a turtle's or tortoise's shell.
- Plural of plastrum; a protective breastplate or chest piece worn in fencing or martial arts.
Usage: zoology; comparative anatomy
Usage: sports; historical
Examples
- The scientist examined the plastrums of several turtle specimens to study their growth patterns.
- Fencers wear padded plastrums to protect their chests during competition.
- The tortoise's plastrums were marked with distinctive growth rings.
- Different species of turtles have plastrums with varying shapes and textures.
- The museum displayed ancient plastrums alongside other pieces of armor.