Meaning of the Fields 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 Fields 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.
Fields name meaning and origin
Fields is an English surname that has its roots in the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old English word 'feld', meaning 'open country' or 'land free from wood'. This name was often given to people who lived or worked on fields or meadows. It's a topographic surname, which was given to a person who resided near a physical feature such as a hill, stream, church, or type of tree. So, in essence, the Fields surname signifies a connection to the countryside or farming.
History of family crests like the Fields 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.
Fields name variations and their meaning
The family name Fields has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Field, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Fielding, which adds the suffix "-ing" to the base name. This variation may have originated as a way to indicate that the family was associated with fields or farming. Another variation is Fielder, which adds the suffix "-er" to the base name. This variation could suggest that the family had a profession or occupation related to fields, such as being a field worker or a field manager. Additionally, the name Fieldman is another variation that could indicate a similar profession or occupation. These variations of the family name Fields demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. They also provide insight into the different ways in which individuals and families have chosen to modify and personalize their names throughout history.
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