# coat of arms

**Pronunciation:** ˌkoʊt əv ˈɑːrmz · KOHT-uv-ARMZ

**CEFR level:** C1

**Part of speech:** noun

## Meaning

A unique heraldic design displayed on a shield or surcoat, used to identify an individual, family, or institution.

## Examples

- The royal coat of arms was engraved above the entrance to the castle.
- Each branch of the family developed a slight variation of the original coat of arms.
- The university's coat of arms appears on every official degree certificate.

## Synonyms

- emblem — A general symbol representing an organization or idea.
- crest — Often used interchangeably with coat of arms, though technically just the top part of the design.
- insignia — A badge or distinguishing mark of rank or membership.
- heraldry — Refers to the entire system or study of coats of arms.

## Collocations

- bear a coat of arms — Only noble families were permitted to bear a coat of arms in the past.
- display a coat of arms — The embassy continues to display a coat of arms on its front gates.
- design a coat of arms — The king commissioned a famous artist to design a coat of arms for his new house.

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