Meaning of the Bearce family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Bearce 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.
Bearce name meaning and origin
The family name Bearce is of European origin, particularly stemming from England. Its meaning is believed to be derived from the Old English word "bearu," which means "grove" or "woodland." This suggests that the name may have originally referred to someone who lived near a grove or wooded area. Alternatively, it may have been a topographical surname given to someone who lived near a bear's den or habitat.
History of family crests like the Bearce 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.
Bearce name variations and their meaning
The family name Bearce has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Bearse, Beers, Beirse, and Beirce. Each variation represents a unique spelling or pronunciation of the name, which may have been influenced by regional dialects or personal preferences.
The Bearse variation, for instance, could be seen as a phonetic alteration of the original name. Similarly, the Beers variation might have been influenced by the pronunciation of the name in a specific region or by the spelling conventions of a particular time period. The Beirse and Beirce variations, on the other hand, could be the result of individuals adopting alternative spellings to differentiate themselves or simply due to clerical errors in official records.
These variations highlight the fluidity and adaptability of surnames over generations. They also demonstrate how a single family name can evolve and take on different forms while still retaining its core identity. Whether it's Bearce, Bearse, Beers, Beirse, or Beirce, these variations all represent branches of the same family tree, each with its own unique story and history.
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
