An archaic term for a type of close-fitting metal helmet or head armor that covered the back and sides of the head but left the face exposed.
From Old French cuif, which came from Latin cuppa, meaning 'cup' or 'head covering.' The shape of the helmet resembled an inverted cup protecting the cranium.
Medieval armor makers literally called a helmet a 'cup' because that's exactly what it looked like—a metal cup you wore on your head! This reveals how practical people describe things they invent.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.