Armour family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Armour family crest symbols

Star

The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Armour 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.

Armour name meaning and origin

The surname Armour has Scottish origins, derived from the Gaelic term "armoir," meaning a house or shelter. Often associated with protection and strength, it reflects the historical roles individuals played as guardians or warriors. The name symbolizes resilience and familial unity across generations.

History of family crests like the Armour 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.

Armour name variations and their meaning

Among the intriguing variations of the family name Armour are Armure, which can be found in France, reflecting the linguistic evolution from the Latin root "armatura" during the 12th century, emphasizing the transition towards a more localized pronunciation. In Scotland, the name emerges as Armore and continues to exist into the 17th century, showcasing the regional adaptations in both phonetics and spelling influenced by Gaelic. Meanwhile, in the context of North America, the surname has branched out to forms like Armer and Armors, particularly during the 19th century, as English-speaking immigrants adapted the name fittingly within their new linguistic environments. Similarly, the German variant Armhofer has developed, incorporating elements of local dialects from the 15th century onward, which highlights the interactions between German and English-speaking settlers. Each of these variations reflects historical migrations, phonetic shifts, and cultural interactions that have occurred over centuries, deepening the narrative behind the name.

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