Meaning of the Abercrombie family crest symbols
Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Abercrombie coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Abercrombie name meaning and origin
The family name Abercrombie is of Scottish origin and is derived from the place name Abercrombie in Fife, Scotland. It means "mouth of the river Crombie" in Gaelic.
History of family crests like the Abercrombie coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Abercrombie name variations and their meaning
The family name Abercrombie has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Abercromby, which is often used interchangeably with the original spelling. Another variation is Abercrombie-Smith, which combines the family name with another surname. This variation may have occurred due to marriage or other familial connections. Additionally, the name may have been shortened to simply Abercromb or Crombie in some cases. These variations could have been influenced by regional dialects or personal preferences. It is also possible that different branches of the family adopted slightly different spellings over time, leading to further variations. Regardless of the specific variation, the name Abercrombie and its variations have likely been passed down through generations, carrying with them a sense of family history and identity.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com