Meaning of the Craighton 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.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Craighton 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.
Craighton name meaning and origin
Craighton is a surname of English origin, often associated with geographical locations. It may derive from "Craiton," indicating a settlement or estate. The name suggests historical connections to land ownership or familial ties to specific regions, embodying a rich heritage often linked to nobility.
History of family crests like the Craighton 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.
Craighton name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Craighton showcase a fascinating tapestry of linguistic evolution across different cultures and centuries. In Scotland during the 17th century, the name may have morphed into Creighton, influenced by the Gaelic phonetics that adapted the original sound for local usage. Meanwhile, in England, particularly in the 18th century, you could find Crighton emerge as another variant, perhaps shaped by regional dialects that emphasized certain consonant shifts. Moving to the 19th century, the name saw a further transformation in parts of Ireland, evolving into the surname Crichton, reflecting the anglicization processes prevalent during that era. Meanwhile, the 20th century introduced Creyton in some areas, which could be attributed to modern shifts in spelling preferences as families sought a more phonetic representation of their name. Through these changes, one can observe how the Craighton name adapted to linguistic landscapes, leading to a rich diversity that highlights its historical journey across regions and times.
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
