Meaning of the Atkinson 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.
Rose
The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.
Meaning of the Atkinson 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.
Atkinson name meaning and origin
Atkinson is an English surname that has its roots in the medieval period. It is a patronymic name, which means it is derived from the name of a father or male ancestor. In this case, Atkinson means "son of Atkin" or "son of Adam." The suffix "-son" is a common feature in such names, indicating lineage. This name is particularly prevalent in Northern England, reflecting the historical distribution of the Atkinson family.
History of family crests like the Atkinson 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.
Atkinson name variations and their meaning
The family name Atkinson has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Atkisson, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Atkyns, which is an older form of the name and can still be found in some historical records. Atkens is another variation that has been documented, although it is less common. Additionally, some individuals with the surname Atkinson may choose to use a shortened version, such as Atk or Atko, as a nickname or informal variation. These variations of the family name Atkinson demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over generations. They also highlight the diverse ways in which individuals may choose to identify themselves within their family lineage. Whether it is Atkisson, Atkyns, Atkens, or a shortened version, the variations of the name Atkinson reflect the unique identities and personal choices of individuals within the Atkinson family.
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