Meaning of the At family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the At 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
At name meaning and origin
The surname At has origins in various cultures, particularly in South Asia and Eastern Europe. It can signify connection to a geographical location or ancestry. In some cases, it denotes a profession or social standing, reflecting the lineage and historical significance of the bearers.
History of family crests like the At 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.
At name variations and their meaning
The family name At has manifested in various intriguing forms across different cultures and languages. In Spain, for instance, the name evolved into Atienza, a reflection of regional dialects that flourished during the late medieval period in the 15th century, infusing the name with a distinctly Iberian flair. Meanwhile, in Italy, variations like Atti emerged in the 16th century, showcasing the linguistic shifts and local adaptations influenced by the Renaissance and the blending of Latin roots with Italian vernacular. As we move eastward, in Slavic regions, names such as Atkov or Atovich appeared in the 17th century, highlighting the patronymic tradition that characterized many Slavic surnames during a time of national awakening and identity formation. In the United Kingdom, the name transformed into Attenborough around the 18th century, integrating local geographic features and family identifiers to create a unique lineage link. Each variation reflects a fascinating interplay of language, culture, and historical context, enriching the narrative of the At family name across centuries.
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
