canting arms

Canting arms, also known as punning arms, are a type of heraldic design where the symbols on a coat of arms visually represent the bearer's name. For example, trumpets might be used for a family named Trumpington, or a spear for someone named Shakespeare.1

Heraldry itself is the system by which coats of arms are devised, displayed, and regulated. A coat of arms typically includes symbols on an escutcheon (shield), often accompanied by elements like a crest, motto, and supporters. The term "coat of arms" originally referred to a tabard or surcoat worn by knights over armor, embroidered with symbols to denote family lineage and alliances. The language of heraldry, known as blazon, uses a specialized vocabulary, often derived from archaic French, to describe these designs.21