Meaning of the Clifford 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.
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 Clifford 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Clifford name meaning and origin
The family name Clifford is of English origin and is derived from a place name meaning "ford by a cliff" or "ford near a slope."
History of family crests like the Clifford 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.
Clifford name variations and their meaning
The family name Clifford has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it is commonly spelled as Clifford, which is the most recognized form of the name. However, there are also alternative spellings such as Clyfford and Cliford. In Scotland, the name is often spelled as Cliffton or Clifton, giving it a slightly different sound. In Ireland, the name can be seen as Clifforde or Cliford, adding an extra "e" at the end. In some cases, the name may be hyphenated as Cliff-Ford or Cliff-Ord, emphasizing the two distinct syllables. Additionally, there are variations that incorporate a different letter at the beginning, such as Glifford or Klifford, which give the name a unique twist. These variations of the family name Clifford showcase the diversity and adaptability of surnames across different cultures and 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
