Map of England showing where the Dent arms are recorded
The Dent arms were recorded in London, c. 1620.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in England in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in England when the Dent arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in England
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of England.
Origin & History of the Dent Family in England
The surname Dent is primarily of English origin and is considered a locative name, meaning it was originally taken from a specific place. Historians believe the name comes from the village of Dent, located in the scenic valley of Dentdale in Cumbria. People who moved away from this area during the Middle Ages often adopted the name of their home village to identify themselves to others. By the time members of the family were documented in London in 1620, the name had already spread far from its northern roots. These early London residents were likely part of a growing movement of people seeking new opportunities in the capital city. Over several centuries, the family established itself across various regions of England, evolving from a local identifier into a lasting hereditary surname.
Dent Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
dens
Latin word meaning tooth or a jagged projection.
This name
DentA topographic name for someone living near a deep valley or a prominent rocky outcrop.
also spelled
Dentei
Denty
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Reaney, Percy Hide, A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
The National Archives, Prerogative Court of Canterbury and Related Probate Jurisdictions: Will Registers, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
fusilTravail and industry
lozengeHonour and nobility, and the arms of a woman
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
fusilTravail and industry
lozengeHonour and nobility, and the arms of a woman
