Definition of: armature

(är′mə·chr) noun
1. A piece of soft iron joining the poles of a magnet to prevent the loss of magnetic power.
2. Electr. a In a dynamo or motor, the cylindrical, laminated iron core carrying the coils of insulated wire to be revolved through the magnetic field, b The part of a relay, as a buzzer or bell, that vibrates when activated by a magnetic field.
3. Biol, a Protective covering for defense or offense, as the shells of animals, prickles on plants, etc. b A set of organs: the gastric armature.
4. Archit. Framing used to stiffen or brace.
5. In sculpture, a framework to support the clay or other substance used in modeling.
6. Arms; armor.
—v.t. ·tured, ·tur·ing To furnish or provide with an armature. [<F <L armatura armor <armare arm. Doublet of ARMOR.]