Butterfield family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Butterfield family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle

The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.

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 Butterfield 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.

Butterfield name meaning and origin

The surname Butterfield is of Old English origin, derived from the term "butter" and "feld," meaning a field where butter is made or where butter was sold. It reflects an association with agricultural practices, particularly dairy farming, and signifies a connection to rural life.

History of family crests like the Butterfield 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.

Butterfield name variations and their meaning

Butterfield has seen various adaptations and spellings across different regions and time periods, reflecting linguistic shifts and cultural nuances. In the 17th century, for instance, variations like Butterfeld emerged in England as regional dialects influenced spelling conventions, leading to phonetic interpretations of the name. The 18th century introduced Butterfelde in some Germanic areas, showcasing how the name adapted to fit local pronunciation and orthographic systems. By the 19th century, the name Butterfiel surfaced in the United States, influenced by wave of immigration, which often altered traditional names to fit American English phonetics. In Scandinavia, a variant like Bøtterfeld has been documented, which shows a fusion of the original name with Scandinavian language traits. These transformations illustrate the fluidity of family names and their ability to evolve alongside societal changes across continents and centuries.

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