- tunic

TUNIC, Tunique, or Tabard. The surcoat worn by heralds and other officers of Arms distinguished by the general name of Tabard ; but the tabard of a King of Arms is properly called a T unique ; that of a Herald, a Placque ; and that worn by a Pursuivant, a Coat-of-Arms. All were alike, emblazoned with the Arms of the Sovereign or Noble whom the wearer served, and for this reason a surcoat was also termed ‘ Houce des Armes.’ (ELVN)