Definition

Noun: - A heraldic design on a shield: An "armorial bearing" is a distinct, symbolic design or image that is depicted on a shield (or escutcheon) as part of a coat of arms. It is a single, identifiable heraldic charge or figure.

Usage

• The term is used in the specific context of heraldry to describe the individual pictorial elements that make up a coat of arms.
• It refers to a single emblem, such as a lion, an eagle, a fleur-de-lis, or a geometric pattern, that is displayed on the shield.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "To bear arms": This phrase historically means to have the right to use a specific coat of arms, which consists of one or more armorial bearings.
  • Only the eldest son could bear the arms of the family.

Variants and Related Words

• Bearing (n): In heraldry, this is a shortened form meaning the same as "armorial bearing."
• Charge (n): The general heraldic term for any emblem or device occupying the field of a shield.
• Coat of arms (n): The full heraldic achievement, which typically includes the shield (with its armorial bearings), a helmet, crest, mantling, and supporters.
• Emblazon (v): To depict or display armorial bearings or a coat of arms.

Synonyms

• Heraldic device
• Charge
• Emblem (in a heraldic context)

Notes on Meaning

• An "armorial bearing" is a component of a full "coat of arms." While sometimes used loosely to mean a coat of arms, its precise meaning refers to the individual symbol the shield, not the entire heraldic composition.

Noun

1. heraldry consisting of a design or image depicted on a shield