Dictionary entry

Gules

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Gules (gūlz), n. [OE. goules, F. gueules, the same word as gueule throat, OF. gole, goule, L. gula. So named from the red color of the throat. See Gullet, and cf. Gula.] (Her.) The tincture red, indicated in seals and engraved figures of escutcheons by parallel vertical lines. Hence, used poetically for a red color or that which is red.

His sev'n-fold targe a field of gules did stain

In which two swords he bore; his word,

“Divide and reign.” P. Fletcher.

Follow thy drum;

With man's blood paint the ground; gules, gules. Shak.

Let's march to rest and set in gules, like suns. Beau. & Fl.