Middle English Dictionary Entry
fente n.
Entry Info
| Forms | fente n. Also fent. |
| Etymology | OF |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) A slit in a robe extending from the neck down (usually ornamented and closed with a brooch); (b) a slit in a coat of mail, or a flap covering the slit.
Associated quotations
a
- (1440) PParv.(Hrl 221)156 : Fente of a clothe: Fibulatorium, fimbria.
b
- c1440(?a1400) Morte Arth.(1) (Thrn)4249 : Thane frescheliche þe freke the fente vpe rererys [read: rerys], Brochis hym in with the bronde to þe bryghte hiltys.
- a1450 Gener.(1) (Mrg M 876)5941 : Bi the brest his swerd gann glace; Ann hundreth nailes..Of his hauberk he rent thoo..But the stroke vndre the fent Queyntly al a-side it went.