Meaning of the Bourner 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Bourner 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.
Bourner name meaning and origin
The surname Bourner has English origins and is thought to derive from the Old French term "bourn," meaning stream or brook. It likely referred to someone who lived by a stream. The name may also be linked to a geographical location or feature.
History of family crests like the Bourner 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.
Bourner name variations and their meaning
Bourner has produced intriguing variations that reflect the linguistic evolution across regions and eras. In France, the surname has morphed into Bourne, which gained popularity in the 14th century, influenced by regional dialects emphasizing the nasal sounds characteristic of the language. Meanwhile, in England during the 16th century, a variant emerged as Bourner, likely a phonetic adaptation aligned with the changing pronunciations of the time. As one travels to Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, the name can be seen as Bournarski, a transformation spurred by the Slavic linguistic preference for suffixes that denote locality or origin, prevalent in the 17th century. In Italy, where names often reflect familial lineage, a version such as Bournetti appeared in the 18th century, showcasing the Italian fondness for adding diminutive suffixes to denote affection or connection. Each of these variations not only highlights the name’s versatility across cultures but also encapsulates the rich tapestry of historical and linguistic influences that have shaped its presence in different parts of the world.
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
