Meaning of the Frankham 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.
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 Frankham 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.
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.
Frankham name meaning and origin
The family name Frankham likely has English origins, derived from a place name or personal name. It may signify a connection to a location or family lineage, reflecting historical roots in England. Variations of the name often highlight regional dialects and local heritage.
History of family crests like the Frankham 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.
Frankham name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Frankham can be observed across different regions and languages, reflecting historical migrations and linguistic shifts. In England, the name may appear as Francome or Frankcomb, with the suffixes indicating local geographic features or settlements, particularly from the 13th century onward when place-naming became common. Meanwhile, in German-speaking countries, one might find a derivation like Franck, emerging around the 16th century, which streamlines pronunciation and aligns with the tendency for German names to favor brevity. By the 18th century, as families migrated to America, adaptations such as Franklin became prevalent, demonstrating how phonetic shifts influenced spellings based on new dialects and cultural integration. In regions like Scandinavia, variations such as Frankhamsson can be seen, evolving in the 19th century due to patronymic naming traditions that emphasized lineage, showcasing regional adaptation driven by societal customs. These variations encapsulate the rich tapestry of linguistic evolution and familial identity across centuries.
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
