CHAPLESS, n. 1. A garland or wreath to be worn on the head; the circle of a crown.2. A string of beads used by the Roman Catholics, by which they count the number of their prayers. They are made sometimes of coral, of wood, of diamonds, &c., and are called parternosters. The invention is ascribed to Peter the hermit, who probably learnt it in the East, as the Orientals use a kind of chaplet, called a chain, rehearsing one of the perfections of God on each link, or head. The Great Mogul is said to have eighteen of these chains, all precious tones. The Turks also use a kind of chaplet in reciting their prayers.3. In architecture, a little molding, carved into round beads, pearls, olives or the like.4. In horsemanship, a chapelet, which see.5. A tuft of feathers on a peacocks head.6. A small chapel or shrine.
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