Meaning of the Guttridge family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
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 Guttridge 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.
Guttridge name meaning and origin
Guttridge is a surname of English origin, typically associated with the Old French word "goutier," meaning to be a keeper of the gout or a person with an affinity for fine wine and food. The name may denote heritage linked to culinary traditions.
History of family crests like the Guttridge 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.
Guttridge name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Guttridge showcase an intriguing linguistic evolution influenced by geography and culture. In the 13th century, the name began to appear in England as Gutteridge, which reflected the regional dialects and phonetic shifts of that era. As time progressed into the 16th century, transcriptions in documents led to further adaptations, such as Gutreage and Guttredge, stemming from both clerical variations and local pronunciations. By the 18th century, the name saw diffusion into other countries, resulting in adaptations like Gutteridge in Australia and Guttridge in parts of North America, where immigration influenced name anglicization practices. In some Eastern European contexts, similar-sounding variants emerged, aligning with local linguistic trends, illustrating how Guttridge has transformed while retaining its root essence over centuries. Each variant carries with it a story of migration, adaptation, and the interplay of language and identity that deepens appreciation for the name itself.
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
