Byington family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Byington family crest symbols

Torse

The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette

The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.

Meaning of the Byington 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.

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.

Byington name meaning and origin

Byington is an English surname that originated as a habitational name for individuals who lived in a place called Byington. The name is derived from the Old English words "by" meaning "farmstead" and "tun" meaning "enclosure" or "settlement."

History of family crests like the Byington 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.

Byington name variations and their meaning

The family name Byington has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is "Barrington," which adds the prefix "Bar-" to the original name. This variation may have originated from the practice of adding a prefix to surnames to denote a specific occupation or social status. Another variation is "Berington," which replaces the "y" with an "e." This change in spelling could have occurred due to regional dialects or personal preference. Additionally, the name "Birington" is another variation that has been observed. This alteration may have been influenced by the pronunciation of the name in different regions or by individuals seeking to differentiate themselves from others with the same surname. Overall, these variations of the family name Byington demonstrate the fluidity and adaptability of surnames over time.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: