coat of arms

American  

[koht uhv ahrmz] / ˈkoʊt əv ˈɑrmz /

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 British  

noun

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

2. a surcoat decorated with family or personal bearings

---

Etymology

Origin of coat of arms

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

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

coat of arms

A coat of arms, designed by her two children, was incorporated in the memorial unveiled a year later.

From BBC ● Jul. 17, 2026

"That is why our flag features carpet motifs and our coat of arms depicts the Akhal-Teke."

From Barron's ● Jun. 5, 2026

Their impeccable hearing and quick thinking were rewarded by the Austrian emperor, who bestowed the pretzel bakers with their own coat of arms featuring two lions holding a massive pretzel.

From Salon ● Apr. 28, 2026

Passports featuring Queen Elizabeth II's coat of arms would remain valid until their expiry date, the government said.

From BBC ● Oct. 10, 2025

It looked like rosewood; a painted design on the top was only just recognizable as a coat of arms.

From "The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage" by Philip Pullman