'Chapeau bras' definitions:

Definition of 'Chapeau bras'

From: GCIDE
  • Chapeau \Cha`peau"\, n.; pl. Chapeux. [F., fr. OF. chapel hat. See Chaplet.]
  • 1. A hat or covering for the head. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Her.) A cap of maintenance. See Maintenance. [1913 Webster]
  • Chapeau bras[F. chapeau hat + bras arm], a hat so made that it can be compressed and carried under the arm without injury. Such hats were particularly worn on dress occasions by gentlemen in the 18th century. A chapeau bras is now worn in the United States army by general and staff officers. [1913 Webster]