Goodenough family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Goodenough 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.

Rose

The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.

Meaning of the Goodenough 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.

Goodenough name meaning and origin

The family name Goodenough is of English origin and is derived from the Old English words "god" meaning good or God, and "genoh" meaning enough or sufficient. Therefore, the surname Goodenough can be interpreted to mean "good enough" or "sufficiently good." This name likely originated as a nickname for someone who was deemed to be good or virtuous enough.

History of family crests like the Goodenough 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.

Goodenough name variations and their meaning

The family name Goodenough has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. These variations include Goodenow, Goodenowgh, Goodenowes, Goodenowse, and Goodenowghes. These different spellings can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, and the evolution of the English language over time.

The variations in spelling can also be influenced by individual family members' preferences or the way the name was recorded in official documents. It is not uncommon for families to adopt different spellings of their surname, leading to further diversification.

Despite the variations, all these spellings ultimately refer to the same family name. The Goodenough surname has a long history and can be found in various parts of the world. It is fascinating to observe how the name has evolved and adapted over time, reflecting the ever-changing nature of language and the diverse influences that shape our identities.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: