Editing Codpiece (section)

{{short description|Flap or pouch that covers the crotch of men's trousers}}
[[File:Angelo Bronzino - Portrait of Guidobaldo della Rovere (cropped).jpg|thumb|Codpiece and dog belonging to [[Guidobaldo II della Rovere, Duke of Urbino]], portrait by [[Angelo Bronzino]], 1531–32]]
[[File:Pieter Breughel 2, Drunkard on an egg.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|A codpiece was commonly worn during the [[Renaissance]]; oil on oak painting by [[Pieter Brueghel the Younger]]]]

A '''codpiece''' ({{etymology|enm|{{wikt-lang|enm|cod}}|[[scrotum]]}}) is a triangular piece that attached to the front of men's [[hose (clothing)|hose]], covering the [[Fly (clothing)|fly]]. It may be held in place by ties or buttons. It was an important fashion item of European clothing during the 15th–16th centuries, in the 16th century becoming a firm upwards-pointing projection based on a stiff material such as [[boiled leather]], or in [[plate armour]], steel. 

In the modern era, similar clothing pieces are worn in the [[leather subculture]], and in performance costumes, such as for rock and metal musicians. A similar device with rigid construction, an [[athletic cup]], is used as protective gear for male athletes.