Meaning of the Buckingham family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Buckingham 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.
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.
Buckingham name meaning and origin
The family name Buckingham is of English origin and is derived from a place name meaning "homestead of Bucca's people." It is believed to have originated from the Old English personal name Bucca combined with the word "ham" meaning homestead or village.
History of family crests like the Buckingham 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.
Buckingham name variations and their meaning
The family name Buckingham has various variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Buckinghame, Buckyngham, and Buckenham. Each variation adds a unique twist to the name while still maintaining its core essence. These variations may have originated from different regions or through different branches of the family tree.
The variation Buckinghame adds an extra "e" at the end, giving it a slightly more elegant and sophisticated sound. Buckyngham, on the other hand, replaces the "a" with a "y," creating a more distinctive and uncommon spelling. Lastly, Buckenham replaces the "i" with an "e," resulting in a softer and more melodic pronunciation.
These variations of the Buckingham family name showcase the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. They also highlight the individuality and personalization that can occur within a family lineage. Whether it's Buckinghame, Buckyngham, or Buckenham, each variation represents a unique branch of the Buckingham family tree.
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
