mesail

noun /ˈmɛseɪl/

1. The visor of a helmet, especially when made in two parts.

   historical

   The mesail face-defence, still consisting of the visor with its eye-slits and noseguard attached to the helmet by two pivots, could be raised or lowered at will, while the two shell-shaped cheek-pieces formed a bevor or chin [guard].

Where it comes from

Probably from Old French muçaille (“concealment”), via French mézail; only attested in English since the 1800s (also spelled mezail, mursail). Alternatively, a connection to muzzle has also been suggested.

Adapted from the Wiktionary entry mesail (CC BY-SA 4.0).

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