Meaning of the Dorsey 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.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Dorsey 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.
Dorsey name meaning and origin
The family name Dorsey is of English origin and is derived from the Old French personal name D'Arcy, meaning "from Arcy." It is believed to have originated from a place name in Normandy, France.
History of family crests like the Dorsey 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.
Dorsey name variations and their meaning
The family name Dorsey has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is D'Orsay, which adds an apostrophe before the "O" and changes the "e" to an "a." This variation may have originated from a different pronunciation or spelling of the name. Another variation is Dorse, which drops the "y" at the end and replaces it with an "e." This variation could have been influenced by regional accents or dialects. Additionally, some individuals may choose to spell the name as Dorsay, without the apostrophe. This variation could be a personal preference or a result of different spelling conventions. Lastly, there may be other less common variations of the name, such as Dorsie or Dorsayy, which could be the result of unique family traditions or individual choices. Overall, the variations of the family name Dorsey demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time.
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
