Meaning of the Gower 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 - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Gower 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.
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.
Gower name meaning and origin
The family name Gower is of Welsh origin, derived from the place name Gower in South Wales. It is believed to mean "a dweller by the triangular-shaped hill" or "a dweller by the goat enclosure."
History of family crests like the Gower 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.
Gower name variations and their meaning
The family name Gower has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Gowers, which adds an "s" to the end of the name. This variation is often seen in English-speaking countries and is used to denote the plural form of the name. Another variation is Gowar, which replaces the "e" with an "a". This variation is more commonly found in India and is often associated with individuals of Indian descent. Additionally, the name Gower can also be spelled as Gauer, Gour, or Gorr, depending on the region and cultural background. These variations may have originated from different dialects or phonetic changes over time. Regardless of the spelling or pronunciation, individuals with the Gower surname share a common ancestry and heritage. The variations in the name reflect the diverse nature of family names and their evolution over generations.
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
