Plumbum, R. (lit. lead). A general term denoting anything that is made of lead, such as a lead pipe, a slinger’s bullet, &c.
Fig. 547. Pluteus.
Pluteus, R. A general term including anything made of boards adapted to afford a support, cover, passage, &c.; and thus sometimes used as a synonym for musculus or protective shed. Fig. [547], a pluteus upon three wheels, was used for protecting soldiers conducting an approach at the foot of a rampart. These plutei were covered with the skins of animals, which were wetted to protect the machines from fire; and helped to deaden the shock of missiles.
Plynteria, Gr. (πλυντήρια, washing). Festivals held at Athens in honour of Athena Aglauros, in which the statue of the goddess was stripped of its garments and ornaments and washed. It was carefully concealed in the mean time, and the city being thus in a manner deprived of its protecting divinity, the day was considered an ill-omened one.
Pnigeus, R. (πνιγεὺς, lit. a choker). A kind of funnel employed to stop or repress the air in a hydraulic organ.
Pnyx, Gr. The site in Athens where the Ecclesiæ were held. It was a semicircular rising ground, with an area of 12,000 square yards, levelled with a pavement of large stones, and surrounded by a wall, behind which was the Bema or platform from which speakers addressed the people.
Pocillum or Poculum, R. Any cup or glass for drinking, distinct from the Crater for mixing, and the Cyathus for ladling the wine. (Cf. Pokal.)
Poddisoy, Padusoy, O. E. (Fr. pou de soie). A rich plain silk.
Podera, Gr. (ποδήρης, i. e. reaching to the feet). A rich linen dress worn by Greek women, the edges of which were indented.