De Vere family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the De Vere 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.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the De Vere 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.

De Vere name meaning and origin

The family name De Vere originates from the Norman French, meaning of the city or town of Ver in Normandy. Historically significant, the De Vere lineage includes notable figures in English nobility, particularly as earls of Oxford, playing vital roles in politics and literature throughout the centuries.

History of family crests like the De Vere 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.

De Vere name variations and their meaning

The family name De Vere has seen several interesting variations across different cultures and time periods. During the 13th century, as languages evolved and regions experienced shifts in dialect, the name began to manifest as De Vair in French-speaking areas, reflecting the local phonetic preferences. By the 16th century in England, the name was often simplified to Vere, stripping away the aristocratic ‘De’ and making it more accessible for common usage. The 18th century introduced the variant Devere, likely influenced by Anglicization processes as families sought to blend into their English surroundings. Meanwhile, in regions with a strong influence from the Iberian Peninsula, such as parts of South America, it can appear as De Ver, showcasing a seamless integration into Spanish phonetics. Each of these variations not only highlights linguistic adaptation but also the broader social dynamics that shaped the name over centuries.

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