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coat of arms

The definition of a coat of arms is a shield with symbols and figures that represent a family, person, a group or other organization.

(noun)

An example of a coat of arms is a family crest.

See coat of arms in Webster's New World College Dictionary

a group of emblems and figures (heraldic bearings) usually arranged on and around a shield and serving as the special insignia of some person, family, or institution

Origin: transl. of Fr cotte d'armes, light garment worn over armor, generally blazoned with heraldic arms

See coat of arms in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. coats of arms coats of arms
Heraldry

A tabard or surcoat blazoned with bearings.
a. An arrangement of bearings, usually depicted on and around a shield, that indicates ancestry and distinctions.
b. A representation of bearings.

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