Dictionary
Thesaurus
Reference
Translate
Web
COAT - 4 reference results
coat of arms: see blazonry and heraldry.
arms, coat of: see blazonry; heraldry.
or shield of arms

Heraldic device dating to the 12th century in Europe. It was originally a cloth tunic worn over or in place of armour to establish identity in battle. In the full armorial achievement the distinctively patterned shield is ornamented with a crest, helmet, mantling, motto, crown, wreath, and supporters and rests upon a compartment. Arms were later adopted as emblems for schools, churches, guilds, and corporations to reflect their origins or histories. Seealso heraldry.

Learn more about coat of arms with a free trial on Britannica.com.


Search another word or see COAT on Dictionary | Thesaurus