A protective or decorative front panel, especially on electronic equipment or protective gear.
Compound of 'face' (from Old French face, from Latin facies meaning 'appearance') and 'plate' (from Old French plate, meaning 'flat piece of metal'). The term emerged in industrial contexts in the early 20th century as machinery became more standardized.
Faceplates serve the dual purpose of protection and presentation - they literally put a 'face' on technology. In welding, diving, and electronics, the faceplate becomes the interface between human and machine, making the complex appear simple and approachable.
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