also: てこう
noun
hand and wrist cover; gauntlet
A protective covering for the back of the hand and wrist, often used in traditional Japanese archery (kyudo) or as part of samurai armor.
弓道では手甲を着けて手の甲を保護する。
In kyudo, one wears a tekko to protect the back of the hand.
甲冑の一部として手甲
Tekko were used as part of armor.
Variant spelling with a small っ, emphasizing the geminate pronunciation.
籠手 is a more general term for arm guards or gauntlets in Japanese armor, covering the forearm as well, while 手甲 specifically covers the back of the hand and wrist.
Compound of 手 (te, 'hand') and 甲 (kou, 'back of the hand' or 'instep'). The reading てっこう is a regular gemination of てこう.