Meaning of the Earp 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 - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Earp coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Earp name meaning and origin
The family name Earp is of English origin and is derived from the Old English personal name Eorp, meaning "wild horse." This would have been a nickname given to someone who was known for having the characteristics of a wild horse, such as being spirited or strong-willed. In some cases, the name may also be of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name MacGiolla Mhir, which means "son of the devotee of Mary."
History of family crests like the Earp 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.
Earp name variations and their meaning
The family name Earp has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. One common variation is "Erp," which is believed to be an older form of the name. Another variation is "Earpes," which adds an "s" at the end, possibly indicating a plural form or a different branch of the family. "Erpe" is yet another variation, which could be a result of regional dialects or accents. Additionally, the name "Earpson" has been recorded, suggesting a patronymic form of the name, meaning "son of Earp." It is interesting to note that these variations may have emerged due to different factors such as migration, changes in pronunciation, or even clerical errors during record-keeping. Despite these variations, the name Earp has remained relatively consistent in its core form, indicating a strong family identity and lineage.
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
