The linothorax (pronounced ; from ) is a type of upper body armor used throughout the ancient Mediterranean world. The term "linothorax" is a modern term based on the Greek , which means "wearing a breastplate of linen"; however, the actual ancient term for this type of armor is unclear. The term "thorax" was the word for breastplate during this era and was traditionally made of metal in most contexts. The "linothorax" were made of linen glued in layers with animal fat, and eventually adopted by many armies.