Căt'a-phrāct, n.
n. [Lat. cataphractes, Gr. καταφράκτης, from καταφράκτος, covered, from καταφράσσειν, to cover, from κατά, down, quite, and φράσσειν, to inclose.]
- (Mil. Antiq.) A piece of heavy, defensive armor, formed of cloth or leather, strengthened with scales or links, used to defend the breast, the whole body, or even the horse, as well as the rider.
- The armor of plate covering some fishes. Dana.