Meaning of the Briar 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.
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 Briar 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Briar name meaning and origin
Briar is a surname of English origin, often associated with the word for a thorny bush. It can symbolize resilience and protection. Historically, it may have been used for someone living near such plants or as a nickname for a person with sharp characteristics.
History of family crests like the Briar 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.
Briar name variations and their meaning
Briar has seen several intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In England during the 12th century, the surname Brier emerged, often adapted from local dialects, which incorporated regional phonetic influences. By the 15th century, the French variant Briar became prominent, reflecting the Normans' linguistic impact on English nomenclature. Meanwhile, in Eastern Europe, particularly in the 17th century, the name Brjear appeared, likely influenced by Slavic language structures that favor softer consonant sounds. The transformation into the Italian Briaro in the 18th century showcased the adaptation of the original name into a more melodic format, suited to the region's aesthetic sensibilities. Each of these variations not only illustrates the phonetic evolution of the name but also the cultural exchanges that have shaped its identity through 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
