Meaning of the Clarington 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 Clarington 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.
Clarington name meaning and origin
Clarington is a surname believed to have English origins, likely derived from a place name meaning "the settlement by the river Clary." It reflects geographical and topographical features, emphasizing familial ties to specific locales, commonly associated with historical roots and heritage.
History of family crests like the Clarington 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.
Clarington name variations and their meaning
Clarington has several intriguing variations that reflect linguistic evolution across different cultures and time periods. In the 16th century, the name might have surfaced as Clareington in England, demonstrating an alteration in spelling that softened the phonetics. Meanwhile, in the 18th century, Clarington evolved into Clarin, particularly in French-speaking Canada, as the silent 'g' became less pronounced in everyday speech. As the 19th century progressed, immigration and the interaction of diverse populations birthed Clarington’s American variant, Clarenton, which emerged notably among English-speaking settlers in the Midwest. Additionally, in the context of Spanish influence, Clarington morphed into Clarín during the same era, showcasing how regional adaptations and phonetic simplifications shaped each version uniquely. Through these variations, one can trace the journey of the name across centuries, observing how cultural exchanges and language changes enriched its legacy.
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
