swordarmed

Swordarmed is a descriptive term used in heraldic and design contexts to denote a figure that carries, bears, or wields a sword as part of its depiction. It is not a standard technical term in official heraldic blazons, but may appear in glossaries, art briefs, or fan wikis as a compact way to express that the charge is armed with a sword rather than with other weapons or bare hands.

Origin and usage: The construction combines the noun “sword” with the past participle “armed,” following a common pattern in heraldic language where “armed” modifies a weapon or appendage. In practice, writers may use “swordarmed” as a terse descriptor or may choose to phrase descriptions as “holding a sword” or “with a sword” depending on the desired level of precision. The term emphasizes the presence of the weapon itself rather than its color, position, or other attributes.

Context and meaning: In heraldry, such a descriptor can help convey martial or knightly symbolism, signaling readiness for combat or a warrior role. In modern fantasy art, role-playing game lore, and related design work, “swordarmed” serves as shorthand for artwork or character concept that centers on sword-based combat.

See also: heraldry, blazon, charge, weapon symbolism, sword-bearing.