Emily Dickinson Lexicon
Definition for Arms
arms, plural n. [Fr. < L. arma, fittings, tackle, gear < IE ar-, to fit, join.] (webplay: law).
Weapons of war; instruments of defense; tools of protection, indicating the status of a gentleman; [clipping of “coat of arms”] status symbols; armorial ensigns of a noble family; colorful figures on shields and banners; marks of distinction passed from father to son.
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