Pronunciation: [tɹˈɛʃəd] (IPA) 
The word "Tressured" is spelled with a double 's' in the middle, indicating the presence of two distinct 's' sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, this would be represented as /trɛʃərd/. The 'e' in the middle serves to separate the 'sh' and 'r' sounds, creating two distinct syllables. This word is often used in heraldry to indicate a shield that is decorated with a border of interlaced lines or motifs, known as a "tressure".
Tressured, also spelled "tressure," is a term used in heraldry to describe a distinctive heraldic design element that resembles a narrow and continuous border or fringed band surrounding a shield. It consists of two parallel lines, one on the inside and the other on the outside, with narrow diagonal lines connecting them at regular intervals, forming a trellis-like pattern. The tressured border is typically found enveloping the outer edge of the shield, creating a neat and visually appealing frame.
This decorative feature is commonly associated with Scottish heraldry and is often used to enhance the overall appearance and significance of a coat of arms. It serves as a way to distinguish a particular coat of arms from others and emphasizes the importance of the individual or family it represents.
The tressured border varies in design and complexity, with some appearing as a plain and unadorned band, while others incorporate additional decorative elements such as fleurs-de-lis, crosses, or other small motifs. The choice and style of the tressured design can provide further insights into the historical and cultural background of the individual or family it relates to.
In summary, tressured refers to a narrow and continuous border with diagonal lines connecting two parallel lines, creating a trellis-like pattern. It is a distinctive design element used in heraldry, particularly in Scottish coats of arms, to enhance the aesthetic appeal and significance of a shield.
The word "tressured" derives from the noun "tressure", which is primarily used in the context of heraldry. A tressure refers to an additional narrow border or framing surrounding a shield or coat of arms.
The etymology of "tressure" can be traced back to the Middle French word "tressour" and the Old French word "tressor", both meaning "a treasury" or "a treasure". Ultimately, these French terms have their roots in the Latin word "thesaurus", meaning "a treasure" or "a storehouse". The underlying idea is that the tressure acts as a decorative border, emphasizing and encompassing the main emblem within, much like a valuable and protected treasure. The adjective "tressured" is derived from the noun form "tressure" and describes something that is adorned with or enveloped by a tressure.
