An orthosis or orthopedic appliance that supports or holds in correct position a part of the body and can allow motion at adjacent joints, in contrast to a splint, which prevents motion of the part. [M.E., fr. O.Fr., fr. L. bracchium, arm, fr. G. brachion]
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brace 'brās n
1) an appliance that gives support to movable parts (as a joint or a fractured bone), to weak muscles (as in paralysis), or to strained ligaments (as of the lower back)
2) braces pl an orthodontic appliance usu. of metallic wire that is used esp. to exert pressure to straighten misaligned teeth and that is not removable by the patient
brace vt, braced; brac·ing to furnish or support with a brace
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(brās) 1. a device that holds parts together or in place. 2. an orthopedic appliance (orthosis) used to support, align, or hold parts of the body in correct position. 3. (in the pl.) orthodontic appliance.Medical dictionary. 2011.