The Manual of Heraldry

-- Page 48 --

ANNULET. A small circle borne as a charge in coats of arms.

Ex. Azure, an annulet argent.

Annulets are added to arms for a difference. See DIFFERENCES, p. 13.

ANCIENT. A small flag or ensign. The bearer of the flag was called by its name. Iago was ancient to the troops commanded by Othello.

"This is Othello's ancient, as I take it.
The same indeed, a very valiant fellow."

SHAKESPEARE.

ARCHBISHOPS. Church dignitaries of the first class. There are but two in England -- the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of York. The former is the first peer of England next to the royal family, and has the title of Grace given to him; and likewise Most Reverend Father in God. He is styled Primate of all England, and Metropolitan.

The Archbishop of York has precedence of dukes and great officers of state, except the lord chancellor. He is called His Grace and Most Reverend Father in God; and styled Primate of England and Metropolitan.

ARGENT. The French word for silver, of which metal all white fields or charges are supposed to consist.

ARMED. This word is used to express the horns, hoofs, beak, or talons of any beast or bird of prey, when borne of a different tincture from those of their bodies.

Ex. Crest, a demi-griffin armed, gules.