Meaning of the Hancher 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 Hancher 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.
Hancher name meaning and origin
The family name Hancher likely has English origins, possibly derived from a geographic location or occupation. It suggests a connection to historical roots in England, where surnames often reflected the profession, residence, or personal traits of ancestors, indicating a lineage that may have had local significance.
History of family crests like the Hancher 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.
Hancher name variations and their meaning
One fascinating variation of the family name Hancher is the Hancher–Hanchard blend often found in Canada, which emerged in the 18th century as a result of linguistic adaptation influenced by English and French immigration. In Germany, the evolution of the name into Häncher during the 19th century illustrates the country's phonetic shifts and regional dialects, displaying how local pronunciation can alter the spelling of surnames. Similarly, in Eastern Europe, the transition to Hanczarek in the 20th century showcases Slavic linguistic characteristics, adding a unique twist that reflects cultural integration. The 17th century saw Hanchere develop in France, where the suffix modification indicated familial lineage, revealing the evolving nature of surnames across borders and epochs. Such variations highlight the rich tapestry of history, migration, and language that shape the identity linked to the name Hancher.
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
