Meaning of the Dorshire family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Dorshire 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.
Dorshire name meaning and origin
The family name Dorshire does not have a specific meaning in European origin. It may be derived from a place name or have roots in another language. Without a known origin, the meaning of Dorshire is not definitively known.
History of family crests like the Dorshire 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.
Dorshire name variations and their meaning
The family name Dorshire has a rich history and has evolved over time, resulting in various spellings and variations. One common variation is Dorrshire, which may have originated from a different pronunciation or regional dialect. Another variation is Dorcher, which could have been a result of phonetic changes or a different spelling adopted by a particular branch of the family. Additionally, the name may have been altered to Dorschire, possibly due to a misspelling or transcription error in official records. These variations highlight the fluidity of surnames and how they can change over generations. It is fascinating to observe how a single name can take on different forms while still retaining its core identity. The diverse variations of the Dorshire family name serve as a testament to the complexity and diversity of human history, as well as the individuality of each family branch.
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
