Translation guide
The English word 'armor' refers to protective covering worn in battle. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 鎧 (yoroi), but there are several related terms depending on the type, material, and historical context. This guide covers the main Japanese words for armor, from general to specific, and includes useful phrases and cultural notes.
Referring to protective covering worn in combat, especially traditional Japanese armor.
The most common and general word for armor, especially traditional Japanese armor (samurai armor). Can also refer to armor in fantasy or historical contexts.
Samurai fought wearing armor.
A more formal or literary term for armor, often used in historical or museum contexts. It encompasses both helmet (兜) and body armor (鎧).
A general term for protective gear, including modern sports equipment (e.g., kendo armor) or bulletproof vests. Not limited to historical armor.
Refers to armor plating, especially on vehicles, tanks, or ships. A technical term.
Specifically referring to the helmet part of armor.
The traditional Japanese helmet, often worn with 鎧. Can also refer to helmets in general, including modern ones.
Referring to a shield used for defense, often alongside armor.
The general word for shield. Can be used for historical, fantasy, or modern riot shields.
Referring to modern protective vests, often bulletproof.
Using 'armor' in a figurative sense, such as emotional armor or armor of God.
Can be used metaphorically, similar to English. For example, 'emotional armor' or 'armor of God'.
The knight put on his armor.
This armor is very heavy.
博物館で甲冑を見学した。
I viewed armor at the museum.
Put on kendo armor.
戦車の装甲は厚い。
The tank's armor is thick.
The samurai's helmet has a magnificent crest.
Loanword for modern helmets (bicycle, construction, military). Not used for traditional samurai helmets.
Please wear a helmet at the construction site.
騎士は剣と盾を持っている。
The knight has a sword and shield.
Bulletproof vest. チョッキ means vest/waistcoat. Commonly used in police/military contexts.
Police officers wear bulletproof vests.
Loanword from English 'body armor'. Used for modern tactical vests, often in military or airsoft contexts.
Special forces are equipped with body armor.
He took off his emotional armor.
Specifically 'Armor of God' in Christian contexts. 武具 means arms/armor.
Put on the full armor of God.
exhibition of armor
kendo armor
鎧 (yoroi) typically refers to traditional body armor. For modern helmets, use ヘルメット (herumetto). For bulletproof vests, use 防弾チョッキ (bōdan chokki) or ボディアーマー (bodi āmā).
This museum has a large collection of samurai armor.
Modern soldiers wear body armor.