Billette

/bɪˈlɛt/ noun

Definition

A small heraldic square or rectangular charge (design element) used in coat of arms and heraldry designs.

Etymology

Diminutive form derived from 'billet', from French 'billette'. In heraldry, the term was applied to small rectangular shapes used as symbolic elements in aristocratic coats of arms.

Kelly Says

If you ever study medieval heraldry and see a coat of arms covered with small rectangles, those are billettes—and they often symbolized logs or timber, which was a sign of wealth and resource-ownership back then!

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