The Thraex (: Thraeces), or Thracian, was a type of Roman gladiator armed in Thracian style. His equipment included a parmula, a small shield (about 60 x 65 cm) that might be rectangular, square or circular; and a sica, a short sword with a curved blade like a small version of the Dacian falx), intended to maim an opponent's unarmoured back. His other armour included greaves, a protective belt above a loincloth, and a helmet with a side plume, visor and high crest.
A passage in Petronius indicates that "Thracian" was a style of gladiatorial fighting taught in training schools. An inscription records a doctor thraecum, a teacher of would-be Thracians.
