coat of arms

[koht uhv ahrmz]

noun

1. the main part of an identifying design in heraldry that is usually depicted on a drawing of a shield.

   The Prince of Wales' coat of arms is a dragon.

2. an identifying design in heraldry that is used by a person or by family groups and that usually includes a drawing of a shield bearing other important identifying designs, and any mottos, banners, crests, etc., that surround that drawing.

   Her family was given a coat of arms when she married into the royal family.

3. a surcoat or tabard embroidered with an identifying design used in heraldry, worn by medieval knights over their armor.

coat of arms

noun

1. the heraldic bearings of a person, family, or corporation

2. a surcoat decorated with family or personal bearings

Word History and Origins

Origin of coat of arms¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English; parallel to French cotte d'armes