Meaning of the Foxworth 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Foxworth 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.
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.
Foxworth name meaning and origin
Foxworth is a distinguished surname of Old English origin. It is derived from the Old English words 'fox', meaning fox, and 'worth', meaning enclosure or homestead. Thus, the name essentially translates to 'fox enclosure' or 'homestead where foxes are found'. This suggests that the original bearers of the name likely lived in an area known for its fox population. It's important to note that this interpretation is based on the etymology of the name and its components, rather than any specific historical or geographical context.
History of family crests like the Foxworth 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.
Foxworth name variations and their meaning
The family name Foxworth has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Foxworthy, which is similar in sound and spelling. Another variation is Foxworths, which adds an "s" to the end of the name. Additionally, some individuals may choose to drop the "w" and spell the name as Foxorth. These variations may have originated due to different dialects or regional accents, resulting in slight changes in pronunciation and spelling. Another possible reason for variations could be the result of clerical errors or misspellings when recording the name in official documents. Over generations, these variations may have become established and passed down within different branches of the family. Regardless of the specific variation, individuals with the Foxworth name share a common ancestry and heritage. These variations serve as a reminder of the diverse ways in which family names can evolve and adapt over time.
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