Fesswise is a heraldic term that refers to a symbol being displayed horizontally across a shield. The spelling of fesswise is pronounced as /ˈfɛs.waɪz/. The word fesswise originates from the Old French word ‘faix,' meaning stripe. The term is used in a variety of contexts, including architecture, design, and branding. Understanding the precise meaning and correct spelling of fesswise is important for people who work in these fields or who are studying heraldry.
Fesswise is an adjective term used in heraldry to describe the positioning or orientation of a charge or figure on a shield. Derived from the word "fess" which refers to a horizontal band across the middle of a shield, fesswise entails the placement of a charge or figure perpendicular to this band, creating a vertical orientation.
In terms of its application in heraldry, fesswise is often used to describe animals, objects, or other figures positioned upright from left to right. This positioning gives a visual representation of a creature or object standing tall, with its head typically facing towards the viewer.
The term can also be applied more broadly in other fields such as graphic design or architecture, where it refers to the positioning of an element in a similar vertical manner. For instance, in logo design, a fesswise orientation may involve placing a graphic element or text vertically from left to right, creating a distinctive visual appearance.
Overall, fesswise describes the characteristic orientation of a charge or figure in a vertical direction from left to right. Its usage is primarily associated with the field of heraldry but can also be applied in other domains that involve visual representations and design.
The word "fesswise" is derived from the term "fess" in heraldry. "Fess" refers to a horizontal band or stripe across a shield. In heraldic terminology, "fesswise" is used to describe an object or charge that is depicted horizontally, as if it were lying across a shield. The suffix "-wise" is a Middle English and Old English word meaning "manner" or "way". Therefore, "fesswise" literally means "in the manner of a fess". This term is mainly used in the context of heraldry to describe the positioning of charges or symbols on a coat of arms.