Definition of the word blazon

The word "blazon" has a rich etymology. It originated in the 14th century from the Old French word "blason," which means "shield" or "coat of arms." The French term is derived from the Latin "blasonem," meaning "tongue" or "language." In medieval heraldry, a blazon referred to the language or description used to describe a heraldic device, such as a shield or crest. The term eventually expanded to mean the device itself, often emblazoned on a shield or coat of arms. Over time, the word "blazon" has taken on a broader meaning, referring to any display or announcement of something, often with a sense of pomp or ceremony.