coat of arms

noun phrase

Synonyms of coat of armsnext
1
: a tabard or surcoat embroidered with armorial bearings
2
a
: heraldic bearings (as of a person) usually depicted on an escutcheon often with accompanying adjuncts (such as a crest, motto, and supporters)
b
: a similar symbolic emblem

Examples of coat of arms in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Gamers will also be on the lookout for part of King George III’s royal coat of arms from Philadelphia’s historic Christ Church, attended by George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. — Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 8 July 2026 The brand literally cut the coin in half along its edge in order to make one side, the Eagle with the coat of arms, the dial and the other side, Liberty, the case back. — Roberta Naas, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026 And in many Indigenous societies, the color, length, and placement of fringe acted as a coat of arms, signifying one’s family, tribe, or position in the community. — Faran Krentcil, InStyle, 1 July 2026 The bird belongs to the coat of arms of Sir Edmund Hillary, a New Zealander, who was part of the first team to conquer Mount Everest. — Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 9 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for coat of arms

Word History

Etymology

Middle English cote of armes, translation of Middle French cote d'armes

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of coat of arms was in the 14th century

Rhymes for coat of arms

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Browse Nearby Words

coat money
coat of arms
coat of mail
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Cite this Entry

“Coat of arms.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coat%20of%20arms. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

coat of arms

: the heraldic arms belonging to a person, family, or group or a representation of these (as on a shield)
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