Meaning of the Erickson 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.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Erickson 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.
Erickson name meaning and origin
Erickson is a patronymic surname of Old Norse origin, meaning "son of Erik". It's derived from the personal name Erik, which is itself derived from the Old Norse name 'Eiríkr'. The elements 'ei' and 'ríkr' in 'Eiríkr' mean 'ever' and 'ruler' respectively. Therefore, the surname Erickson carries the connotation of being the 'son of the eternal ruler'.
History of family crests like the Erickson 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.
Erickson name variations and their meaning
The family name Erickson has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Ericson, which drops the extra "k" but retains the same pronunciation. This variation may have originated from a spelling error or simply as a personal preference. Another variation is Erikson, which replaces the "c" with a "k." This change could be due to the influence of other Scandinavian names that use the letter "k" instead of "c." Additionally, some individuals may choose to spell the name as Ericksson, adding an extra "s" to the end. This variation could be a result of wanting to emphasize the name's Scandinavian heritage or to differentiate themselves from others with the same surname. Regardless of the spelling variation, the name Erickson and its variations have likely been passed down through generations, representing a shared family history and identity.
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
