A decorative pin or brooch worn on clothing at the chest or breast area, historically an important piece of jewelry.
Compound: 'breast' (chest) + 'pin' (fastening or decorative object). Common from medieval times through the Victorian era as an ornamental brooch.
Breastpins served double duty—they were gorgeous jewelry that showed off wealth and status, but also practical for holding cloaks and loose garments closed, making them the medieval equivalent of both necklaces and safety pins!
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