A broad piece of armor held in the hand or worn on the arm for protection, or anything that provides defense.
From Old English 'scield' related to German 'Schild', from Proto-Germanic meaning 'to divide, separate'. The concept is protecting by creating separation from danger.
Medieval shields weren't just protection - they were walking billboards! The heraldic designs displayed family identity, allegiances, and achievements, making them the world's first portable status symbols.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.