Definition & Meaning of "baldric"

What is a "baldric"?

A baldric is a type of belt-like piece of clothing that is worn diagonally across the body, with one end passing over the shoulder and down to the opposite hip. It is often used to carry a sword or other weapon and is frequently seen in historical depictions of soldiers and warriors. Baldric straps can be made from a variety of materials, including leather, fabric, and metal, and can be decorated with intricate patterns or symbols. While they were commonly used in the past for practical purposes, today they are mostly used for ceremonial or decorative purposes.