Meaning of the Burgess family crest symbols
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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 Burgess 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.
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.
Burgess name meaning and origin
Burgess is an English surname that has its roots in the Middle Ages. It is derived from the term 'burhgeis', which is an Old English and Middle English word meaning 'inhabitant and freeman of a fortified town'. Typically, a Burgess was a town official or a freeman who had served his apprenticeship and earned the right to trade in a town. This surname was often given to individuals who held this position or status in society.
History of family crests like the Burgess 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.
Burgess name variations and their meaning
The surname Burgess has several variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Burges, which is a simplified form of the name. Another variation is Burghess, which adds an extra 'h' to the name. This variation is often found in Scotland and Northern England. In some cases, the name may be spelled as Burge, dropping the final 'ss' sound. This variation is more commonly found in Wales and the West Country of England. Additionally, the name may be spelled as Bourgeois, which is a French variation of the name. This variation is often associated with the French aristocracy. Overall, these variations of the surname Burgess demonstrate the diverse ways in which the name has evolved and been adapted over time and across different regions.
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
