Emblason

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. A symbolic design representing a family, organization, or individual in heraldry ; a decorative or emblematic figure used as an ornamental motif
2. An official badge or shield showing heraldic symbols of lineage or identity ; an artistic motif serving as a visual emblem or decoration
3. A distinctive coat of arms displayed as a mark of heritage or honor ; a stylized or symbolic figure used for decorative or representational purposes

Etymology: The root word described a shield. Old French "blason" was the design painted on a knight's shield, and in heraldry it also meant the verbal description of those arms. "Emblasonner" joined this to the prefix "em-", meaning "in" or "on", so to emblazon was to put arms or devices onto a surface. The spelling changed later. "Blazon" also came to mean proclaiming something loudly, and it blended with "blaze" in the sense of making something widely known. "Blaze," the word for fire, is unrelated, but the confusion gave "emblazon" its z, which the older form "emblason" lacks.

Synonyms: decorate, inscribe