ESCUTCHEON Meaning and
Definition
-
Escutcheon is a noun that refers to a shield or a metal plate with a specific shape that is used as a decoration or as a way to display a coat of arms. It is typically made of metal, such as brass or copper, and is often adorned with intricate designs or engravings.
In the context of heraldry, escutcheon also refers to the central part of a coat of arms on which the heraldic devices or charges are depicted. These charges often include symbols, animals, or other elements that represent various aspects of the individual or organization the coat of arms belongs to. The escutcheon serves as a focal point and provides a background for these charges.
Additionally, escutcheon can be used to describe a protective metal plate that is placed around a keyhole or a door lock mechanism. This type of escutcheon is designed to provide an aesthetically pleasing cover for the keyhole and to protect it from damage or tampering.
Lastly, escutcheon can also have a metaphorical usage, referring to a person's reputation or honor. In this sense, it represents a person's figurative shield or defense against criticism or attack on their character or standing in society.
Overall, escutcheon has multiple meanings and uses, encompassing both literal and symbolic representations of shields, heraldry, protective coverings, and reputation.
-
• The shield on which a coat of arms is represented; a hatchment; picture of the ensigns armorial.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for ESCUTCHEON *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for ESCUTCHEON
Etymology of ESCUTCHEON
The word "escutcheon" has its origins in Middle English, ultimately derived from Old French "escusson", meaning "small shield". It can be traced back further to the Latin word "scutum", which also means "shield". The Latin word scutum is related to the Greek word "skhuton", which has the same meaning. The term "escutcheon" began to be used in English by the 14th century to refer to a shield or an ornamental plate displaying a coat of arms. Over time, it came to be specifically associated with the shield-shaped surface on which a coat of arms was depicted.
Idioms with the word ESCUTCHEON
-
a blot on one's escutcheon
The idiom "a blot on one's escutcheon" refers to an act or event that brings shame, disgrace, or dishonor to one's reputation or family name. It alludes to a coat of arms (escutcheon) that represents a family's distinguished heritage, with a "blot" indicating a stain or mark that tarnishes its reputation, symbolically impacting the honor and standing of the person or their lineage.
-
a blot on the escutcheon
The idiom "a blot on the escutcheon" refers to a shameful or disgraceful action or event that tarnishes someone's reputation or family honor. It originates from heraldry, where an escutcheon refers to a shield displaying a family's coat of arms, and a "blot" symbolizes a stain or blemish. In the context of the idiom, it implies that someone's reputation or family lineage has been sullied by an undesirable act or incident.
-
a blot on your escutcheon
The idiom "a blot on your escutcheon" refers to a stain or shameful act that brings dishonor or disgrace to one's reputation or family name. It stems from heraldry, where an escutcheon represents a family's coat of arms, and any mark or blemish on it would tarnish their honor.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
