Meaning of the Grissett 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 Grissett 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.
Grissett name meaning and origin
Grissett is a surname of French origin, derived from the diminutive of the personal name Gris. It typically means "little gray one" and is associated with traits like wisdom and introspection. The name reflects cultural and linguistic influences from French-speaking regions.
History of family crests like the Grissett 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.
Grissett name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Grissett showcase the fascinating evolution of surnames through different cultures and time periods. In France, the name may transform into Griset, reflecting regional dialects that arose in the 16th century. Meanwhile, the transition to Grissot can be traced back to the 17th century, influenced by local patois and the practice of surname modification to denote lineage or occupation. As the name spread to English-speaking countries, particularly in the 19th century, it morphed into Griset and even Grisett, highlighting the anglicization process common among immigrant families adapting to new environments. Meanwhile, in parts of Italy, a variation like Grisetti could emerge, showcasing the trend of incorporating suffixes that denote familial ties from the 18th century. These transformations not only reflect linguistic shifts but also illuminate the social dynamics and migration patterns of families bearing this name.
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
