noun
fibula
An ancient brooch or clasp used to fasten clothing.
A bronze fibula holds the folds of an ancient cloak together.
Etymology
Latin fibula meant a clasp or fastening pin. The archaeological term preserves that original object name for a brooch used to secure clothing.
More examples
- The museum displays several Roman fibulae beside fragments of wool.
- This fibula has a curved body and a sharp pin.
- Archaeologists find decorated fibulas in graves from the Iron Age.
Forms
fibula · fibulae · fibulas