The top part of 盾 is 矛 (spear). Imagine a **SHIELD** (盾) with a **SPEAR** (矛) broken off and stuck in its top, while the bottom part (目 + 寸) represents an **EYE** peeking out from behind it, trying to stay protected.
'Tate' — A **SHIELD** helps you **TAKE** hits and defend yourself.