Definition of Shield

  • (n.) A broad piece of defensive armor, carried on the arm, -- formerly in general use in war, for the protection of the body. See Buckler.
  • (n.) Anything which protects or defends; defense; shelter; protection.
  • (n.) Figuratively, one who protects or defends.
  • (n.) In lichens, a Hardened cup or disk surrounded by a rim and containing the fructification, or asci.
  • (n.) The escutcheon or field on which are placed the bearings in coats of arms. Cf. Lozenge. See Illust. of Escutcheon.
  • (n.) A framework used to protect workmen in making an adit under ground, and capable of being pushed along as excavation progresses.
  • (n.) A spot resembling, or having the form of, a shield.
  • (n.) A coin, the old French crown, or ecu, having on one side the figure of a shield.
  • (n.) To cover with, or as with, a shield; to cover from danger; to defend; to protect from assault or injury.
  • (n.) To ward off; to keep off or out.
  • (n.) To avert, as a misfortune; hence, as a supplicatory exclamation, forbid!

Homophones of Shield