Meaning of the Guillaume 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 - 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 Guillaume 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.
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.
Guillaume name meaning and origin
Guillaume is a French surname derived from the given name Guillaume, which is the French form of William. It is of Germanic origin and means "resolute protector."
History of family crests like the Guillaume 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.
Guillaume name variations and their meaning
The family name Guillaume has various variations across different regions and cultures. In English-speaking countries, it is commonly spelled as William. In Spanish, it is often transformed into Guillermo. In Italian, the name becomes Guglielmo, while in Portuguese it is Guilherme. In German, the name is altered to Wilhelm, and in Dutch, it is Willem. These variations demonstrate the adaptability of the name across different languages and cultures. Each variation maintains the essence of the original name while incorporating unique linguistic characteristics. It is fascinating to observe how a single name can evolve and take on different forms, yet still retain its fundamental identity. These variations of Guillaume highlight the diversity and richness of human language and serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of cultures around the world.
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
