Pectoral

Origin

From Latin pectorālis.

Full definition of pectoral

Adjective

1. Of or pertaining to the breast, or chest; as, the pectoral muscles.
• 1985, Stephen Marley (writer), Managra, p 14:Clad in red robes and a gold pectoral cross, Agostini finally lowered his gaze as he crossed the marble floor.
2. Relating to, or good for, diseases of the chest or lungs.
• 1852, Theophilus Thompson, Annals of Influenza Or Epidemic Catarrhal Fever in Great Britain from 1510 to 1837 (page 107)But, in general, a few days' confinement, abstinence from flesh meat, and frequent sippings of some tepid pectoral drink, sufficed for the cure.
3. (zoology) Having the breast conspicuously colored; as, the pectoral sandpiper.

Noun

1. Protective armor for a horse's breast.
• 1786, Francis Grose, A Treatise on Ancient Armour and Weapons, page 30:The Poitrinal, Pectoral, or Breast Plate was formed of plates of metal rivetted together, which covered the breast and shoulders of the horse, it was commonly adorned with foliage, or other ornaments engraved or embossed.
2. A covering or protecting for the breast.
3. (ecclesiastical) A breastplate, especially that worn by the Jewish high person.
4. (ecclesiastical) A clasp or a cross worn on the breast.
5. A medicine for diseases of the chest organs, especially the lungs.

Derived terms