College of arms meaning

The college of arms is a royal corporation consisting of heralds and pursuivants responsible for granting armorial bearings and regulating heraldry in England.


College of arms definitions

Word backwards egelloc fo smra
Part of speech noun
Syllabic division col-lege of arms
Plural The plural of the word college of arms is colleges of arms.
Total letters 13
Vogais (3) o,e,a
Consonants (7) c,l,g,f,r,m,s

The College of Arms is a royal corporation consisting of professional officers of arms, with jurisdiction over heraldry and other matters related to the granting of arms. Established in 1484 by King Richard III, the College of Arms is responsible for regulating and maintaining the official system of heraldry in England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and other Commonwealth realms.

History of the College of Arms

The College of Arms has a long and storied history, dating back to the medieval period. As the official heraldic authority in England, it plays a crucial role in the ceremonial life of the country. The College of Arms is also responsible for granting new coats of arms, registering genealogies, and conducting research on heraldic matters.

Functions of the College of Arms

One of the primary functions of the College of Arms is to grant coats of arms to individuals and corporate bodies. These coats of arms are a form of personal identification, often passed down through generations. The College of Arms also has the authority to issue heraldic badges and flags, as well as to conduct genealogical research for clients.

Officers of Arms

The College of Arms is overseen by three Kings of Arms: Garter, Clarenceux, and Norroy and Ulster. These senior officers are assisted by six heralds and four pursuivants. Each officer of arms has specific responsibilities within the College, including the regulation of heraldic matters, the granting of new arms, and the maintenance of the official records.

Overall, the College of Arms is a venerable institution with a rich history and a vital role in the preservation and regulation of heraldic traditions. Its officers play a crucial part in maintaining the integrity and authenticity of coats of arms, ensuring that they remain a meaningful and enduring symbol of personal and family identity.


College of arms Examples

  1. I researched my family's history at the College of Arms in London.
  2. The College of Arms is responsible for granting coats of arms in England.
  3. Visiting the College of Arms was a highlight of my trip to England.
  4. Members of the royal family often consult with the College of Arms for heraldic matters.
  5. The College of Arms archives contain a wealth of historical information.
  6. Scholars can access valuable resources at the College of Arms library.
  7. The College of Arms ceremony was a grand and traditional affair.
  8. The College of Arms plays a key role in preserving England's heraldic traditions.
  9. The College of Arms holds a prestigious position in the field of genealogy.
  10. Attending a lecture at the College of Arms was a memorable experience.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 16/06/2024 - 15:10:51