Meaning of the Fritter 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 - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Fritter 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.
Fritter name meaning and origin
The family name Fritter likely has roots in the German or Yiddish languages. It may derive from the word "frit," meaning to fry, possibly indicating an ancestral connection to cooking or culinary trades. The name reflects a historical occupation or lifestyle within those communities.
History of family crests like the Fritter 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.
Fritter name variations and their meaning
Fritter has seen intriguing variations as it traveled across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 17th century, the name morphed into Frithers in England, likely influenced by local dialects that adapted the sound for easier pronunciation. Meanwhile, in Germany, the name evolved into Fritzer, reflecting the common Germanic practice of simplifying names while retaining phonetic similarities. By the 19th century, the name was noted as Fritore in France, where the addition of the -ore suffix gave it a distinctively regional flair, possibly due to the influence of local naming customs. In Scandinavia, a variant like Fridter emerged, adapting to the phonetic preferences of the region during the 18th century. Each adaptation encapsulates a moment in time, showcasing how names can shift and evolve, reflecting societal changes and cultural exchanges throughout the 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
