A toad or toad-shaped object; in heraldry, a three-legged toad used as a coat of arms.
From Old French 'crapaud' (toad), of uncertain ultimate origin, possibly from a descriptive word meaning something lumpy or swollen. The word traveled from French into English heraldic terminology.
Medieval heralds used this heraldic toad as a symbol of France itself—toads were considered symbols of sovereignty, which is why you'll see them on French royal coats of arms alongside fleurs-de-lis.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.