Meaning of the Balcombe 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.
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 Balcombe coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Balcombe name meaning and origin
The family name Balcombe is of English origin, derived from the village of the same name in Sussex. It is believed to mean "dweller at the ridge with a bank" or "dweller by the ridge with the combe (valley)."
History of family crests like the Balcombe 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.
Balcombe name variations and their meaning
The variations of the family name Balcombe can be quite intriguing. In England, the name might appear as Balcomb or Balcom, reflecting changes in spelling conventions over the centuries. In Scotland, one might come across variants like Balcomie or Balcombe-Skene, showing influences from different regions and cultures. In the 17th century, when surnames became more standardized, variations such as Balcomby and Balcombie emerged, likely due to regional accents and dialects. As the name spread to other countries like Australia and New Zealand in the 19th century, even more diverse variations like Balcomby and Balcombe-Smith cropped up, demonstrating the evolution of the name through migration and cultural exchange. Overall, the variations of the family name Balcombe offer a fascinating look into the rich tapestry of language and history that have shaped it over the 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