the College of Arms
/ðə ˌkɒlɪdʒ əv ˈɑːmz/
/ðə ˌkɑːlɪdʒ əv ˈɑːrmz/
(also the College of Heralds
/ðə ˌkɒlɪdʒ əv ˈherəldz/
/ðə ˌkɑːlɪdʒ əv ˈherəldz/
)- an organization in London that is responsible for giving coats of arms (= designs with special symbols) to families and institutions in England and Wales. It was formed in 1484 and its head is the Earl Marshal, who is responsible for organizing state ceremonies in Britain.
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the College of Arms