A belt or broad strap worn diagonally across the chest, usually used to carry ammunition or military supplies.
From Spanish 'bandolera' (feminine of 'bandolero'), related to 'banda' (band, sash). The word came into English in the 16th-17th centuries through military contact with Spanish forces.
Soldiers in old paintings always wear bandoleers draped across their chests loaded with ammunition—this iconic image comes from Spanish military tradition and became universal soldier fashion!
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