Meaning of the Boatright family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Boatright 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.
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.
Boatright name meaning and origin
Boatright is an occupational surname of English origin. It is derived from the Old English words 'bat' and 'wyrhta', which translate to 'boat' and 'maker' respectively. Therefore, the name Boatright essentially means 'boat builder'. This suggests that the original bearers of the name likely held this profession, crafting vessels for travel or trade.
History of family crests like the Boatright 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.
Boatright name variations and their meaning
The family name Boatright has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Boatwright, which is a slight alteration in spelling but still retains the same pronunciation. Another variation is Boateright, which adds an additional "e" to the name. This variation may have occurred due to a misspelling or a personal preference for the added letter. Additionally, some individuals may have chosen to simplify the name to Boat, dropping the "right" or "wright" suffix altogether. This variation could have been influenced by a desire for a shorter or more straightforward surname. Another possible variation is Boath, which is a condensed form of the original name. This variation may have been adopted to create a unique identity or to differentiate from other individuals with the same surname. Overall, these variations of the family name Boatright showcase the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time.
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
