1. A mark shaped like an arrowhead; used to mark convicts' clothing.
2. An arrow with a wide barbed head.
3. An arrowhead mark identifying British government property.
Mark resembling an arrowhead on British government stores. Of doubtful origin, the broad arrow came into general use in the 17th century and is still used to mark government property, such as military supplies, but it has long been abolished on prison dress.