Escutcheon: meaning, definitions and examples

Primarily used in heraldry to describe a shield or shield-like shape that carries a coat of arms. It can also mean a protective plate around keyholes or door handles.

• The escutcheon featured a lion rampant on a blue background.
• Please replace the old, tarnished escutcheon on the door.

Generally refers to a protective device used in battles, but can also symbolize general protection or defense in various contexts. It is less specialized and can be metaphorical.

• The warrior raised his shield just in time to block the arrow.
• The charity acted as a shield for the homeless community.

Broader in use, representing a symbol that stands for a particular idea, organization, or quality. This term is more general and can apply to logos, icons, or signs beyond heraldry.

• The eagle is a national emblem of the United States.
• The company’s emblem was recognized worldwide.

Used to describe a distinctive heraldic design on a shield or escutcheon, often used to show family heritage or allegiance. It is more formal and is typically linked to historical and noble contexts.

• The knight's coat of arms proudly displayed his family's crest.
• The school's coat of arms was embroidered on the uniforms.

This term is often used in heraldry and refers to a shield or emblem displaying a coat of arms. It's used in formal or historical discussions related to family lineage, nobility, or decorative insignia.

• The ancient family crest was beautifully displayed on the escutcheon.
• He had a silver escutcheon mounted above the fireplace.

This term is usually used in biology or anatomy to describe a hard, protective structure made of bone. It's used when talking about animals that have natural protective barriers.

• The bony shield of the turtle provided excellent protection from predators.
• Scientists studied the bony shield covering the armadillo's back.

This phrase refers to a protective layer made of cartilage and is typically used in anatomical or biological contexts. It is less common and more scientific in nature.

• Sharks are unique in that their skeletons consist largely of a cartilaginous covering.
• The biologist examined the cartilaginous covering of the fish.

This term is used in ichthyology (the study of fish) to describe the cover that protects a fish's gills. It's a straightforward term used in discussions about fish anatomy or fishing.

• The fisherman checked the gill cover of the trout to ensure it was healthy.
• During the dissection, the students carefully removed the gill cover to study the gill structure.