Alward family crest and coat of arms

The family name Alward has Anglo-Saxon origins, primarily found in England. It is believed to derive from the Old English personal name Aelfweard, meaning elf and guard. Alward can indicate heritage linked to nobility or important familial roles in early medieval society.

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.

Alward has taken on numerous intriguing variations as it has traversed different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 14th century, the shift in linguistic patterns led to the emergence of Alwardt in German-speaking regions, reflecting the trend of incorporating distinctive endings to surnames. By the 17th century, in regions such as the Netherlands, the name became Alwaard, showcasing the Dutch propensity for phonetic adaptations. Meanwhile, in England, the 18th century saw the simplified variation Alwarde appear, perhaps influenced by local accents and dialects that smoothed out the original syllables. This phonetic evolution continued into the 19th and 20th centuries, resulting in anglicized forms such as Elward and Elwarde, which have become relatively common in contemporary English-speaking countries. Each variation not only represents a linguistic transformation but also reflects the socio-cultural dynamics of the regions where these adaptations occurred.

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