ALLERION, or Arlerion, in Heraldry, a sort of Eaglet, without either Beak or Feet. See EAGLET. The Allerion appears much the same with the Martlet, except that the Wings of the former are shut, and they are represented, as it were, Passant; whereas the Martlet is spread, and is represented In pale. Add, that among our Heralds, the Martlet has a Beak. See MARTLET. The Name is French; and is said to have been introduced for the Word Eaglet. 'Tis added, that the Practice of calling Eaglets, Allerions, and of representing them spread, without Feet and Beaks, is not above a hundred Years old. Hence, Menage derives the Word from Aguilerio, a Diminutive of Aquila.
