shield

A strong, broad object held in front of the body to protect against weapons or blows.

• The soldier carried a shield.
• An arrow struck his wooden shield.
• The warriors raised their shields before the attack.

Common phrases: sword and shield, wooden shield, carry a shield

The central shape in a coat of arms, on which identifying symbols are shown.

• A red lion appears on the shield.
• The family’s shield is divided into four sections.
• Two birds support the shield in these arms.

Similar words: escutcheon

Common phrases: heraldic shield, shield of arms, quartered shield

To protect someone or something from harm, danger, or something unpleasant.

• She shielded her eyes from the sun.
• He tried to shield his children from criticism.
• These gloves shield your hands against the heat.

How to use it: shield someone/something from something (Trees shield the house from strong winds.); shield someone/something against something (The thick walls shield us against the noise.)

Similar words: protect, defend, shelter

Common phrases: shield someone from something, shield against something, shield your eyes