The History and Evolution of Greaves - Leg Armor for Medieval Warriors

Greaves are pieces of armor that protect the legs, specifically the shins and calves. They were commonly used in medieval times to defend against sword blows and other types of bladed weapons.

Greaves were typically made of metal, such as steel or iron, and were designed to fit over the legs, with some models extending up to the knee or even the thigh. They were often worn in conjunction with other pieces of armor, such as cuisses (thigh protectors) and sabatons (foot armor), to provide comprehensive protection for the lower body.

In modern times, the term "greaves" is sometimes used metaphorically to refer to any type of protection or support that is provided for a particular part of the body or system. For example, one might say that a certain policy or procedure provides "greaves" for a particular group or individual, meaning that it offers them support and protection.