Meaning of the Giffard 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.
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 Giffard 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.
Giffard name meaning and origin
Originating from France, Giffard is an ancient Norman name that came over with the conquerors in 1066. It's derived from the Germanic personal name Gifhard, composed of the elements "gift" or "giving" and "hard" meaning strong or hardy. This implies someone who is generous and strong. The name's first recorded spelling was William Giffard, the Bishop of Winchester, during the reign of King Henry I of England, 1100-1135.
History of family crests like the Giffard 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.
Giffard name variations and their meaning
The family name Giffard has seen various variations over time, reflecting the evolution of language and regional influences. Some common variations include Gifford, Giffart, Gifford, Giffort, and Giffarth. These variations can be found in different parts of the world, indicating the migration and dispersion of the Giffard family. The variations may have emerged due to differences in pronunciation, dialects, or even transcription errors. Over the centuries, as families moved and settled in different regions, the spelling and pronunciation of their names often changed to adapt to the local language and customs. It is fascinating to observe how a single family name can have multiple variations, each representing a unique branch of the Giffard family tree. These variations not only add diversity to the family name but also provide insights into the historical and cultural influences that have shaped the Giffard family 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
