Definition

1. Noun:
   • A shield; especially one displaying a coat of arms: A heraldic shield or a surface on which a coat of arms is depicted.
   • A flat protective covering (on a door or wall etc) to prevent soiling by dirty fingers: A plate, often of metal, placed around a keyhole, doorknob, or light switch to protect the surface from wear and dirt.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Heraldic Shield):

  • The family's scutcheon was carved above the fireplace.
  • He studied the intricate design on the ancient scutcheon.

• Noun (Protective Plate):

  • The tarnished brass scutcheon around the keyhole needed polishing.
  • We replaced the old, scratched scutcheon on the light switch.

Advanced Usage

• "A blot on one's scutcheon": A stain on one's honor or reputation.
  • The scandal was considered a blot on the family's scutcheon.

Variants and Related Words

• Escutcheon: This is a more common variant spelling with identical meanings.
  • The word 'escutcheon' is often used in heraldic contexts.

Synonyms

• Shield (for the heraldic meaning).
• Plate, Escutcheon Plate, Rosette (for the protective covering meaning).

Related Idioms

• "A blot on the escutcheon": An idiom meaning a disgrace to one's family name or honor.
  • His criminal record was seen as a blot on the escutcheon.

Noun

1. a shield; especially one displaying a coat of arms
2. a flat protective covering (on a door or wall etc) to prevent soiling by dirty fingers