n. & v. (US armor)
--n.
1. a defensive covering, usu. of metal, formerly worn to protect the body in fighting.
2 a (in full armour-plate) a protective metal covering for an armed vehicle, ship, etc. b armoured fighting vehicles collectively.
3 a protective covering or shell on certain animals and plants.
4 heraldic devices.
--v.tr. (usu. as armoured adj.) provide with a protective covering, and often with guns (armoured car; armoured train).
Etymology: ME f. OF armure f. L armatura: see ARMATURE