ETYM Old Eng. blason, blasoun, shield, from French blason coat of arms, Old Fren. shield, from the root of AS. blaese blaze, i.e., luster, splendor, Mid. High Germ. blas torch See Blaze.
1. A shield.
2. A heraldic shield; a coat of arms, or a bearing on a coat of arms; armorial bearings.
3. The art or act of describing or depicting heraldic bearings in the proper language or manner.
4. Ostentatious display, either by words or other means.

Heraldic arms painted on knight's shield or surcoat.
Coat of arms; banner, etc., bearing heraldic device