Meaning of the Forrester family crest symbols

Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Forrester 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.
Forrester name meaning and origin
The family name Forrester is of European origin and means "one who lives or works in a forest." It is derived from the Middle English word "forestier," which comes from the Old French word "forestier," meaning "of the woods." The surname likely originated as an occupational name for someone who worked as a gamekeeper or forester in a forested area.
History of family crests like the Forrester 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.
Forrester name variations and their meaning
The family name Forrester has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been spelled or pronounced across different regions and historical periods. Some common variations include Forrest, Forster, and Forester. These variations may have originated from different dialects or accents, or simply from personal preference when recording the name.
Forrest is a popular variation that emphasizes the double 'r' sound, giving the name a slightly different phonetic quality. Forster, on the other hand, replaces the double 'r' with a single 'r', resulting in a shorter and more compact version of the name. Forester, with the addition of an 'e' before the 'r', adds a subtle twist to the spelling while maintaining the overall pronunciation.
These variations of the Forrester family name demonstrate the fluidity and adaptability of surnames over time. They also highlight the individuality and uniqueness of each family branch, as they may have chosen to spell or pronounce their name in a way that resonated with their own identity or regional influences.
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
