Meaning of the Bathgate family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
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 Bathgate 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Bathgate name meaning and origin
The family name Bathgate is of European origin, specifically Scottish. It is derived from the place name Bathgate, a town in West Lothian, Scotland. The name is thought to mean "boar's head" in Old English, referring to a hill shaped like a boar's head near the town. Overall, Bathgate is a surname that is linked to a specific location in Scotland.
History of family crests like the Bathgate 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.
Bathgate name variations and their meaning
Bathgate is a family name that has seen various spellings and variations over time. These variations include Bathgait, Bathgatt, Bathgote, and Bathgutt, among others. The different spellings may have emerged due to regional accents, dialects, or simply the evolution of language over generations.
These variations of the Bathgate surname can be found in different parts of the world, indicating the migration and dispersal of the family over time. It is interesting to note how the name has adapted and changed in different regions, reflecting the cultural and linguistic influences of those areas.
The diverse spellings of Bathgate highlight the fluidity of surnames and the importance of considering historical context when researching family history. Each variation may hold clues to a family's ancestral roots, migration patterns, or even social status.
Overall, the variations of the Bathgate surname demonstrate the dynamic nature of names and the rich tapestry of human history that they represent.
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
