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

Example Sentences

Mexico City time, Sheinbaum will don the symbolic presidential sash — embroidered with the Mexican tricolor and embossed with the gold-threaded national coat of arms.

From Los Angeles Times

Before flying out, my passport was stamped with the territory’s coat of arms.

From BBC

The protagonist is a Wagner mercenary called Angel of Wrath, who is depicted fighting blue dog-like creatures wearing the Ukrainian coat of arms.

From BBC

In this country nicknamed "the nature island" because of a vast presence of varied flora and fauna, the frog's importance is highlighted by its presence on the national coat of arms.

From BBC

The flag was used for eight years before being replaced by the current banner, a coat of arms on a blue background.

From Seattle Times