Chivers family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Chivers family crest symbols

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.

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 Chivers 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Chivers name meaning and origin

The family name Chivers is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "ceafere," which means "reed bed" or "marshy land." This suggests that the original bearers of the name may have lived near or worked in areas with these characteristics. Alternatively, it could also be of Norman origin, from the Old French word "chivre," which means "goat." This could have been a nickname given to someone who raised or herded goats.

History of family crests like the Chivers 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.

Chivers name variations and their meaning

The family name Chivers has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. These variations include Chevers, Cheevers, Chivvers, and Chivars, among others. These different spellings may have emerged due to regional accents, dialects, or simply personal preferences when recording the name. Over time, families with the Chivers surname may have adopted different spellings based on how they pronounced or heard the name. Additionally, migration and immigration could have contributed to the variations, as families moved to different countries and encountered different languages and naming conventions. It is also possible that some variations were introduced through clerical errors or transcription mistakes when official records were created. Despite these variations, individuals with these different spellings likely share a common ancestry and heritage. Today, the various spellings of the Chivers surname continue to exist, representing the diverse branches of the family tree.

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