Definition of: escutcheon

(i·skuch′ən) noun
1. Her. The surface, usually shield–shaped, upon which armorial bearings are displayed; a heraldic shield. See under FIELD.
2. Any shield–shaped surface or device.
3. Entomol. The scutum of the mesothorax in certain insects.
4. An ornamented plate about a keyhole, or one to which a door knocker is attached.
5. Naut. That part of a ship's stern on which her name is inscribed. [<AF escuchon <L scutum shield]
ESCUTCHEON
Divisions of shield:
a. Dexter chief.
b. Middle chief.
c. Sinister chief.
d. Dexter flank.
e. Fess point.
f. Sinister flank.
g. Dexter base.
h. Middle base.
i. Sinister base.
j. Honor point.
k. Nombril point.