Codpiece
/ˈkɒd.piːs/noun
A pouch or covering attached to men’s trousers in the 15th and 16th centuries to cover the genital area.
Did you know?The word is literally a compound of Old English *codd* (“bag, sack”) and *pīc* (“piece”), and the object became so exaggerated in Renaissance fashion that it turned anatomy into a public performance of rank.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
codd
“A bag, sack, or pouch.”
Old English
OE
pīc
“A piece or part.”
Middle English
English
codpece
“A pouch-like covering for the genitals.”
15th Century
English
codpiece
“A prominent front flap or pouch on men’s hose, often padded or ornamental.”
Modern English
English
codpiece
“A historical garment covering the male genital area, especially associated with Renaissance dress.”