Escutcheons

/ɪˈskʌtʃənz/ noun

Definition

Plural form of escutcheon; shields or shield-shaped surfaces bearing coats of arms or decorative designs.

Etymology

The plural of escutcheon, derived from Old French escuchon meaning 'shield.' Used in heraldry and architecture since medieval times to denote family crests and decorative shield shapes.

Kelly Says

On old castles and cathedrals, you can spot escutcheons carved into stone—they're like the LinkedIn profiles of the medieval world, advertising who owned or built the place and what important families they were connected to.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.