Meaning of the Coutts 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.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Coutts 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.
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.
Coutts name meaning and origin
The surname Coutts has Scottish origins, likely derived from the Gaelic word "cuit," meaning a small hill or mound. It has historical significance linked to banking and finance, notably associated with Coutts & Co., a prestigious private bank founded in the 17th century.
History of family crests like the Coutts 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.
Coutts name variations and their meaning
Coutts, as a family name, exhibits fascinating variations that reflect linguistic and cultural shifts over centuries. In Scotland during the 12th century, the name began to take on forms like Coutt, which often merged with regional dialects, yielding spellings such as Couts and Coutis, indicating how local pronunciation shaped the written word. In the 15th century, as the name spread to England, it evolved into variants like Cotes and Coates, likely influenced by Old English phonetics and the amalgamation of surnames through marriage and lineage. Moving into the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly through colonial expansion, variations emerged in North America, where Coutts transformed into Coutts Jr. or Coutts Sr., reflecting generational distinctions in familial lines. In France, historical records show variations like Coutté, which developed through the adaptation of French linguistic structures as well as regional pronunciations that altered the name's original form. By the 19th century, migration and global diaspora continued to morph Coutts; for example, in Australia and New Zealand, casual adaptations resulted in nicknames like Cooey or Cooti, showcasing how family identity evolved in new contexts. These examples illustrate the dynamic nature of surnames, underscoring how Coutts has interacted with language, culture, and geography to create a rich tapestry of variations.
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
