escutcheon

An escutcheon is a protective or decorative plate or covering, often made of metal or plastic, used to surround and conceal the junction where a pipe, fixture, or key enters a surface, such as a wall or floor. It helps hide imperfections, prevent water or dirt ingress, and adds an aesthetic finishing touch. In plumbing, for example, an escutcheon around a pipe or faucet provides a neat appearance and maintains a seal. The term can also refer to a shield or emblem used in heraldry or branding, but in most practical contexts, it relates to functional covers within fixtures and fittings.