An archaic or dialectal term for a clasp, buckle, or fastening device, particularly on clothing or armor.
From Old French chape, related to Medieval Latin cappa (cape or cloak), which evolved to mean the metal fastening or clasp on such garments.
Achape shows up in medieval armor descriptions—the metal clasps that held different pieces together were expensive, and battlefield innovations sometimes focused on making them stronger, since a broken clasp meant losing protection at the worst possible moment.
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