Mantling is a term used in heraldry to describe the drapery or cloth that drapes from the helmet in a coat of arms. It is pronounced as /ˈmæntlɪŋ/ with the "a" sound in "mant" being pronounced like the "ah" sound in "father." The vowel sound in the second syllable is pronounced the same as the "i" in "ink." The final syllable, "-ing," is pronounced with a sharp "ng" sound, like in the word "sing."
Mantling, as a noun, refers to a decorative cloth or covering that is typically worn on top of a helmet or placed on a coat of arms. It is used in heraldry, the practice and study of designing, displaying, describing, and recording coats of arms, badges, and other armorial bearings. In this context, mantling is made of fabric, usually silk or velvet, and is designed to drape and hang down from the helmet, serving both as a functional protective covering and as a decorative element. It is often made in the colors associated with the owner's personal or familial heraldic pattern, adding a touch of grandeur and individuality to the visual representation.
As a verb, mantling describes the action of enveloping, covering, or surrounding something in a manner similar to the way mantling is draped. This usage is more commonly found in literary or poetic contexts, where it serves as a metaphorical device to convey a sense of protection, concealment, or encircling. For example, one might describe a forest mantling a remote cabin, indicating that the trees create a sheltering, embracing presence around the dwelling. In this sense, mantling conveys a visual image of something being embraced or enveloped, adding depth and sensory details to the description.
• Spreading; investing; brought up to the top; fermenting.
• In her., representation of a mantle or any drapery.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "mantling" has its origins in the English language. It is derived from the Middle English word "mantelinge", which was itself derived from the Old French word "mantele", meaning "cloak" or "mantle". The Old French word "mantele" was ultimately derived from the Latin word "mantellum", which also meant "cloak" or "mantle".
In heraldry, "mantling" refers to the drapery or decorative cloth that is often depicted as flowing from the helmet of a coat of arms. The term was first used in the context of heraldry in the late 14th century, and it has remained in use since then. The choice of the word "mantling" likely stems from the visual similarity between the flowing cloth on a coat of arms and a cloak or mantle worn by individuals.