hatchment

listen to the pronunciation of hatchment
English - English
An escutcheon of a deceased person, placed within a black lozenge and hung on a wall
{n} an escutcheon set up for the dead
A sort of panel, upon which the arms of a deceased person are temporarily displayed, usually on the walls of his dwelling
{i} plaque on which the coat of arms of a deceased person is displayed (Heraldry)
Called also achievement
A sword or other mark of the profession of arms; in general, a mark of dignity
It is lozenge-shaped or square, but is hung cornerwise
It is used in England as a means of giving public notification of the death of the deceased, his or her rank, whether married, widower, widow, etc