Meaning & use
escutcheon
Last updated
A shield-shaped emblem bearing a coat of arms, or a protective and often decorative plate surrounding a keyhole, door handle, or fixture.
See it in a sentence
The family's escutcheon, carved above the doorway, dated back to the 15th century.
A brass escutcheon framed the old front door's keyhole.
A note on using this word
The idiom "a blot on one's escutcheon" means a stain on one's reputation or honor, drawing on the heraldic image of a defaced family shield.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. noun
A protective and decorative metal plate around a keyhole, door handle, or light switch.
He polished the brass escutcheon around the old lock.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “escutcheon”, then compare your use with the examples above.